CHARLESTON HARBOR NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY & SECURITY
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CHHA Safety & Security Incident Report...
Type: Assault Date: 12/21/2022 8:58 PM Description: Harassment / Intimidation - Domestic Violence. Report #: KC22085207 - Kansas City Police Dept. Address: 6700 BLOCK OF N QUINCY CIR, KANSAS CITY, MO |
From CHHA Safety & Security Committee
Attention Charleston Harbor Homeowners:
Do you have a broken sidewalk adjacent to your property? There's free help for you. The City of KCMO has a program that will repair your sidewalk, although it may take some time for that to occur. In the meantime, to protect your potential liability, it is advised to obtain some orange or yellow spay paint and mark the broken sidewalk and place a caution tape around the area broken.
To utilize our City's program and report your problem, click on the link below:
https://www.kcmo.gov/talk-to-us/mykcmo
Scroll down and click on "Sidewalk/Right-of-Way". Complete the form and attach a photo (if possible).
Attention Charleston Harbor Homeowners:
Do you have a broken sidewalk adjacent to your property? There's free help for you. The City of KCMO has a program that will repair your sidewalk, although it may take some time for that to occur. In the meantime, to protect your potential liability, it is advised to obtain some orange or yellow spay paint and mark the broken sidewalk and place a caution tape around the area broken.
To utilize our City's program and report your problem, click on the link below:
https://www.kcmo.gov/talk-to-us/mykcmo
Scroll down and click on "Sidewalk/Right-of-Way". Complete the form and attach a photo (if possible).
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Safety & Security Update - Dec. 12, 2022
In a survey poll taken by the previous Board, a major concern by residents centered on security, safety and crime prevention in our neighborhood. As many of you know, your HOA installed license plate readers at our 3 exits a few years back to assist in identifying vehicles that might be involved in a reported crime within our neighborhood. The system was effective. But those license plate readers are no longer operable and the new Board has agreed to move forward with a new upgraded and completely different system. Residents can view information on the system through this link: https://www.flocksafety.com |
Assault In Neighborhood Reported to Kansas City Police Dept. 1-28-2022
Type: Assault
Date: 01/28/2022 8:07 PM
Description: Domestic Violence Assault (Non-Aggravated).
Firearm used: NO.
Report #: KC22005985
Address: 6900 BLOCK OF N DENVER AVE, KANSAS CITY, MO
Date: 01/28/2022 8:07 PM
Description: Domestic Violence Assault (Non-Aggravated).
Firearm used: NO.
Report #: KC22005985
Address: 6900 BLOCK OF N DENVER AVE, KANSAS CITY, MO
Auto Stolen From Garage and Tools Taken From Truck - Friday, July 23, 2021
Well it finally happened in our neighborhood today. Criminals came into our subdivision between 3:30 - 4:45 p.m. this afternoon and stole a car from a homeowner's garage and tools from another homeowner's truck. This happened in the 7100 Block of N. Quincy Ave. near the NE71st Terr. entrance/exit.
If any residents have security cameras that record traffic in that area, please review you cameras for the above criminal activity.
Our homes association also has license plate reader cameras 5th all 3 of our exits. Please ask the Board President to review the footage from the cameras to help identify vehicles that left our subdivision during the time period reported. Photos can be turned over to Shoal Creek Property Crimes Division and they can run plates.
As always, residents need to keep their garage doors closed and vehicles locked. Such practice can prevent opportunities for criminal activity to invade our neighborhood.
If any residents have security cameras that record traffic in that area, please review you cameras for the above criminal activity.
Our homes association also has license plate reader cameras 5th all 3 of our exits. Please ask the Board President to review the footage from the cameras to help identify vehicles that left our subdivision during the time period reported. Photos can be turned over to Shoal Creek Property Crimes Division and they can run plates.
As always, residents need to keep their garage doors closed and vehicles locked. Such practice can prevent opportunities for criminal activity to invade our neighborhood.
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School's Out - Please Slow Down In Our NeighborhoodThe kids are out of school now and the weather is getting nice. They’re out playing ball, riding bikes, scooters, and skateboards. Please, please, be extra cautious of the kids. People are whipping around in their cars in the neighborhood so wrecklessly. Please slow down.
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First Criminal Complaint Filed In Charleston Harbor for 2021
Charleston Harbor has had it’s first homeowner report of 2021 to the Kansas City Police Department regarding a criminal incident in the subdivision. Specifics of the crime are:
Type: Theft
Date: 05/18/2021 8:37 PM
Description: Stealing from Auto (Theft from Auto). Report #: KC21031973
Address: 6700 BLOCK OF N CHARLESTON DR, KANSAS CITY, MO
This is a reminder that crime can occur anywhere within Kansas City, as well as in our neighborhood. Best advice from the KCPD is that residents utilize their garage for storage of vehicles. If that’s not possible, then residents parking vehicles outside should remove all valuables and make sure that vehicles are always locked. Another suggestion is that residents install security cameras directed at their driveways and periodically check to make certain that cameras are operational. Video footage of a crime that provides a time stamp and a description of the individual and possible get away vehicle can be very useful in solving such crimes. Our HOA does have license plate reader cameras at our 3 exits and we have shared photos with KCPD in the past to assist in solving crimes.
KCPD also advises that residents keep their garage doors closed as there have been several northland thefts reported where criminals have entered the garage to steal items. KCPD does routine drive-thru of neighborhoods and have reported that Charleston Harbor has a few neighbors who leave their garage doors open during the day-time.
Type: Theft
Date: 05/18/2021 8:37 PM
Description: Stealing from Auto (Theft from Auto). Report #: KC21031973
Address: 6700 BLOCK OF N CHARLESTON DR, KANSAS CITY, MO
This is a reminder that crime can occur anywhere within Kansas City, as well as in our neighborhood. Best advice from the KCPD is that residents utilize their garage for storage of vehicles. If that’s not possible, then residents parking vehicles outside should remove all valuables and make sure that vehicles are always locked. Another suggestion is that residents install security cameras directed at their driveways and periodically check to make certain that cameras are operational. Video footage of a crime that provides a time stamp and a description of the individual and possible get away vehicle can be very useful in solving such crimes. Our HOA does have license plate reader cameras at our 3 exits and we have shared photos with KCPD in the past to assist in solving crimes.
KCPD also advises that residents keep their garage doors closed as there have been several northland thefts reported where criminals have entered the garage to steal items. KCPD does routine drive-thru of neighborhoods and have reported that Charleston Harbor has a few neighbors who leave their garage doors open during the day-time.
First Criminal Report Within Charleston Harbor Subdivision In Several Months
The following criminal report was filed with the Kansas City Police Department's Shoal Creek Patrol Division:
Type: Assault
Date: 12/10/2020 8:15 PM
Description: Domestic Violence Assault (Non-Aggravated). Firearm used: NO. Report #: KC20084600
Address: 7100 BLOCK OF N. QUINCY AVE, KANSAS CITY, MO 64119
Type: Assault
Date: 12/10/2020 8:15 PM
Description: Domestic Violence Assault (Non-Aggravated). Firearm used: NO. Report #: KC20084600
Address: 7100 BLOCK OF N. QUINCY AVE, KANSAS CITY, MO 64119
Cybersecurity Tip For The Holidays
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From Shoal Creek Patrol Community Interaction Officer...
Cybersecurity Tip of the Month As you receive new devices from holiday gift giving and begin setting them up and connect them to your home network and to the internet, here is some information to keep in mind: Internet users in the United States vastly underestimate how often their home networks are targeted by cyber threats. The cyber threats facing even a small or lightly connected home network is numerous and complex. Most home users cannot keep track of the cybersecurity risks, making it hard for them to protect themselves. What many people do not realize is any internet-connected device can pose a security risk. A key finding in a security report performed by Comcast found 83 percent of people who were 100% confident of their security practices would not be if they knew one of their non-screen devices – such as a wireless printer or security camera – had been hacked. Cyber criminals target devices such as printers, storage drives and other devices that do not have screens and keyboard because many of these devices have little or no security protection and can be easily hacked into without the end user even knowing it. The top most vulnerable devices in connected homes are: Computers and laptops Smart phones Networked cameras Networked storage devices Streaming video devices Internet of Things (IoT) Thermostats/HVAC devices. Ways to help protect your home network: Do not equate small with safe. Install and keep updated your anti-virus. Install security updates and patches when released. Do not share passwords. Create strong passwords. Change passwords on a regular basis. This includes but not limited to: accounts, devices, logon, etc. Make backups for recovery and keep a copy in a safe place. Do not depend totally on the cloud. Use a firewall for your internet connection |
Prevention Steps You Need To Take
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From Kansas City Shoal Creek Patrol Division comes this alert and advice...
Apartments, parking lots and even a new destination playground, theft from vehicles on rise. The new destination playground at Hodge Park was targeted. An unknown suspect found 3 unlocked vehicles and left with three wallets that were left inside these three separate vehicles. Total thefts from vehicle from 11/03/2020 to 11/08/2020 here in Shoal Creek Patrol Division was 22. Out of the 22 only two had windows broken out the rest of the vehicles were left unlocked. Items stolen ranged from wallets, back packs, check book, lap top, clothing, shoes, Fire Department clothing, subwoofers, tools, cash, and one handgun. PREVENTION IS SIMPLE Remove your valuables - Leave them at home if you don’t need them. If you need them with you, either put them in the trunk, or take them with you. Do this when you are sure you are not being watched. Lock it or Lose It! - In a recent years, hundreds of thousands worth of belongings were stolen from vehicles and many of them were unlocked. Lock your car doors and close the windows. Location - Choose a well lit parking area, were there are other cars parked close by. Notify parking security if you see anything that looks suspicious. Stay alert when carrying packages to your vehicle to ensure you are not being followed or watched. |
Cold Weather & Car Theft Prevention
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From The Clay County Sheriff's Department...
Neighbors, As temperatures turn colder many will want to start the car and let it warm up before heading out to work or school in the morning. Leaving your car running, unlocked and unattended makes you more vulnerable to become the VICTIM OF AUTO THEFT – we see it happen year after year. Vehicles with newer remote start technology can lessen the likelihood of theft, but only if the keys aren’t left inside. Criminals have (and will) break out a window to joyride in your car. Please take steps to reduce the chances that you’ll become a victim. |
October Is Cyber Security Awareness Month
Did you know...... October is Cyber Security Awareness Month and a perfect time to visit several of the common Internet scams happening now along with some tips to keep you and your family safe all year round.
IDENTITY THEFT AND INTERNET SCAMS
Today’s technology allows us to connect around the world, to bank and shop online, and to control our televisions, homes, and cars from our smartphones. With this added convenience comes an increased risk of identity theft and Internet scams. #BeCyberSmart on the Internet—at home, at school, at work, on mobile devices, and on the go.
COMMON INTERNET SCAMS
As technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals will use more sophisticated techniques to exploit technology to steal your identity, personal information, and money. To protect yourself from online threats, you must know what to look for.
Some of the most common Internet scams include:
• COVID-19 Scams take the form of emails with malicious attachments or links to fraudulent websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or donating to fraudulent charities or causes. Exercise caution in handling any email with a COVID-19-related subject line, attachment, or hyperlink, and be wary of social media pleas, texts, or calls related to COVID-19.
• Imposter Scams occur when you receive an email or call from a person claiming to be a government official, family member, or friend requesting personal or financial information. For example, an imposter may contact you from the Social Security Administration informing you that your Social Security number (SSN) has been suspended, in hopes you will reveal your SSN or pay to have it reactivated.
• COVID-19 Economic Payments scams target Americans’ stimulus payments. CISA urges all Americans to be on the lookout for criminal fraud related to COVID-19 economic impact payments—particularly fraud using coronavirus lures to steal personal and financial information, as well as the economic impact payments themselves—and for adversaries seeking to disrupt payment efforts.
SIMPLE TIPS
• Double your login protection. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure that the only person who has access to your account is you. Use it for email, banking, social media, and any other service that requires logging in. If MFA is an option, enable it by using a trusted mobile device, such as your smartphone, an authenticator app, or a secure token—a small physical device that can hook onto your key ring.
• Shake Up Your Password Protocol. According to NIST guidance, you should consider using the longest password or passphrase permissible. Get creative and customize your standard password for different sites, which can prevent cyber criminals from gaining access to these accounts and protect you in the event of a breach. Use password managers to generate and remember different, complex passwords for each of your accounts. Read the Creating a Password Tip Sheet for more information.
• Be up to date. Keep your software updated to the latest version available. Maintain your security settings to keeping your information safe by turning on automatic updates so you don’t have to think about it, and set your security software to run regular scans
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ONLINE FRAUD
Stay Protected While Connected: The bottom line is that whenever you’re online, you’re vulnerable. If devices on your network are compromised for any reason, or if hackers break through an encrypted firewall, someone could be eavesdropping on you—even in your own home on encrypted Wi-Fi.
• Practice safe web surfing wherever you are by checking for the “green lock” or padlock icon in your browser bar— this signifies a secure connection. • When you find yourself out in the great “wild Wi-Fi West,” avoid free Internet access with no encryption.
• If you do use an unsecured public access point, practice good Internet hygiene by avoiding sensitive activities (e.g., banking) that require passwords or credit cards. Your personal hotspot is often a safer alternative to free Wi-Fi.
• Don’t reveal personally identifiable information such as your bank account number, SSN, or date of birth to unknown sources.
• Type website URLs directly into the address bar instead of clicking on links or cutting and pasting from the email.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO YOU
If you discover that you have become a victim of cybercrime, immediately notify authorities to file a complaint. Keep and record all evidence of the incident and its suspected source. The list below outlines the government organizations that you can file a complaint with if you are a victim of cybercrime.
• FTC.gov: The FTC’s free, one-stop resource, https://www.identitytheft.gov/can help you report and recover from identity theft. Report fraud to the FTC at ftc.gov/OnGuardOnline or https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov.
• US-CERT.gov: Report computer or network vulnerabilities to US-CERT via the hotline: 1-888-282-0870 or www.us-cert.gov. Forward phishing emails or websites to US-CERT at phishing-report@us-cert.gov.
• IC3.gov: If you are a victim of online crime, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at http://www.IC3.gov.
• SSA.gov: If you believe someone is using your SSN, contact the Social Security Administration’s fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
Sent by JCF, Network Infrastructure KCPD Cyber Security Awareness Team: Det. Leland Blank, Supervisor Jackie Chapman-Fagan, Jamie Hamilton Network Security Specialist, and Det. Kim Shirley-Williams 10/20/20
IDENTITY THEFT AND INTERNET SCAMS
Today’s technology allows us to connect around the world, to bank and shop online, and to control our televisions, homes, and cars from our smartphones. With this added convenience comes an increased risk of identity theft and Internet scams. #BeCyberSmart on the Internet—at home, at school, at work, on mobile devices, and on the go.
COMMON INTERNET SCAMS
As technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals will use more sophisticated techniques to exploit technology to steal your identity, personal information, and money. To protect yourself from online threats, you must know what to look for.
Some of the most common Internet scams include:
• COVID-19 Scams take the form of emails with malicious attachments or links to fraudulent websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information or donating to fraudulent charities or causes. Exercise caution in handling any email with a COVID-19-related subject line, attachment, or hyperlink, and be wary of social media pleas, texts, or calls related to COVID-19.
• Imposter Scams occur when you receive an email or call from a person claiming to be a government official, family member, or friend requesting personal or financial information. For example, an imposter may contact you from the Social Security Administration informing you that your Social Security number (SSN) has been suspended, in hopes you will reveal your SSN or pay to have it reactivated.
• COVID-19 Economic Payments scams target Americans’ stimulus payments. CISA urges all Americans to be on the lookout for criminal fraud related to COVID-19 economic impact payments—particularly fraud using coronavirus lures to steal personal and financial information, as well as the economic impact payments themselves—and for adversaries seeking to disrupt payment efforts.
SIMPLE TIPS
• Double your login protection. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure that the only person who has access to your account is you. Use it for email, banking, social media, and any other service that requires logging in. If MFA is an option, enable it by using a trusted mobile device, such as your smartphone, an authenticator app, or a secure token—a small physical device that can hook onto your key ring.
• Shake Up Your Password Protocol. According to NIST guidance, you should consider using the longest password or passphrase permissible. Get creative and customize your standard password for different sites, which can prevent cyber criminals from gaining access to these accounts and protect you in the event of a breach. Use password managers to generate and remember different, complex passwords for each of your accounts. Read the Creating a Password Tip Sheet for more information.
• Be up to date. Keep your software updated to the latest version available. Maintain your security settings to keeping your information safe by turning on automatic updates so you don’t have to think about it, and set your security software to run regular scans
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ONLINE FRAUD
Stay Protected While Connected: The bottom line is that whenever you’re online, you’re vulnerable. If devices on your network are compromised for any reason, or if hackers break through an encrypted firewall, someone could be eavesdropping on you—even in your own home on encrypted Wi-Fi.
• Practice safe web surfing wherever you are by checking for the “green lock” or padlock icon in your browser bar— this signifies a secure connection. • When you find yourself out in the great “wild Wi-Fi West,” avoid free Internet access with no encryption.
• If you do use an unsecured public access point, practice good Internet hygiene by avoiding sensitive activities (e.g., banking) that require passwords or credit cards. Your personal hotspot is often a safer alternative to free Wi-Fi.
• Don’t reveal personally identifiable information such as your bank account number, SSN, or date of birth to unknown sources.
• Type website URLs directly into the address bar instead of clicking on links or cutting and pasting from the email.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO YOU
If you discover that you have become a victim of cybercrime, immediately notify authorities to file a complaint. Keep and record all evidence of the incident and its suspected source. The list below outlines the government organizations that you can file a complaint with if you are a victim of cybercrime.
• FTC.gov: The FTC’s free, one-stop resource, https://www.identitytheft.gov/can help you report and recover from identity theft. Report fraud to the FTC at ftc.gov/OnGuardOnline or https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov.
• US-CERT.gov: Report computer or network vulnerabilities to US-CERT via the hotline: 1-888-282-0870 or www.us-cert.gov. Forward phishing emails or websites to US-CERT at phishing-report@us-cert.gov.
• IC3.gov: If you are a victim of online crime, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at http://www.IC3.gov.
• SSA.gov: If you believe someone is using your SSN, contact the Social Security Administration’s fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
Sent by JCF, Network Infrastructure KCPD Cyber Security Awareness Team: Det. Leland Blank, Supervisor Jackie Chapman-Fagan, Jamie Hamilton Network Security Specialist, and Det. Kim Shirley-Williams 10/20/20
Please, Please Keep Your Vehicles Safe
From William Keeney, Shoal Creek Community Interaction Officer, KCPD...
What do you have inside your Car?
This past week Shoal Creek Patrol Division had 11 vehicles broken into and items stolen.
The top 10 most common items stolen from cars:
Smartphones
Personal electronic devices, ie. tablets, laptops, GPS, etc.
Work tools
Credit cards
Documents and identification
Cash or change
Car parts and accessories
Garage door openers
Sunglasses
Keys
We have had 11 stolen autos and Detectives arrested an individual that will be able to clear two.
Use common sense when parking and exiting your vehicle:
Take your vehicle's key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
Park in well-lit areas if possible.
If possible, park your vehicle in the garage.
Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.
Thieves want vehicle parts and valuable items, too.
Radios and wheel covers aren't the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from the mandated labeled parts to those that aren't. Some of the most popular vehicle parts or valuable items stolen from vehicles include doors, engines, transmissions, air bags, radios, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses.
Protect Your Ride
There are numerous antitheft systems and devices designed to make vehicles more difficult to steal or easier to trace and recover. Here are how some of them work:
Audible and Visible Devices: These devices, such as a horn alarm, deter theft by bringing attention to an unauthorized attempt to steal or enter a vehicle. Visible devices create a visual threat/warning/deterrence, such as the use of steering-wheel locks, as well as theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etching.
Immobilizing-Type Devices: These prevent thieves from bypassing a vehicle’s ignition system and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some incorporate computer chips in ignition keys or disable the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine.
Vehicle Recovery Systems: These devices use electronic transmission technology that help law enforcement reveal the location of stolen vehicles—and possibly catch the thief in the act.
Where's My Ride?
If you are a victim of vehicle theft, follow these steps:
Contact police immediately to file a stolen-vehicle report. You will need a copy of the police report and/or a case number to provide to your insurance company. You may also be asked to provide the following information:
License plate number;
Make, model, and color of your vehicle; and
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and any identifying characteristics.
Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of your vehicle being stolen.
If you find your vehicle before authorities do, contact the police and your insurance company immediately.
What do you have inside your Car?
This past week Shoal Creek Patrol Division had 11 vehicles broken into and items stolen.
The top 10 most common items stolen from cars:
Smartphones
Personal electronic devices, ie. tablets, laptops, GPS, etc.
Work tools
Credit cards
Documents and identification
Cash or change
Car parts and accessories
Garage door openers
Sunglasses
Keys
We have had 11 stolen autos and Detectives arrested an individual that will be able to clear two.
Use common sense when parking and exiting your vehicle:
Take your vehicle's key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
Park in well-lit areas if possible.
If possible, park your vehicle in the garage.
Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.
Thieves want vehicle parts and valuable items, too.
Radios and wheel covers aren't the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from the mandated labeled parts to those that aren't. Some of the most popular vehicle parts or valuable items stolen from vehicles include doors, engines, transmissions, air bags, radios, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses.
Protect Your Ride
There are numerous antitheft systems and devices designed to make vehicles more difficult to steal or easier to trace and recover. Here are how some of them work:
Audible and Visible Devices: These devices, such as a horn alarm, deter theft by bringing attention to an unauthorized attempt to steal or enter a vehicle. Visible devices create a visual threat/warning/deterrence, such as the use of steering-wheel locks, as well as theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etching.
Immobilizing-Type Devices: These prevent thieves from bypassing a vehicle’s ignition system and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some incorporate computer chips in ignition keys or disable the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine.
Vehicle Recovery Systems: These devices use electronic transmission technology that help law enforcement reveal the location of stolen vehicles—and possibly catch the thief in the act.
Where's My Ride?
If you are a victim of vehicle theft, follow these steps:
Contact police immediately to file a stolen-vehicle report. You will need a copy of the police report and/or a case number to provide to your insurance company. You may also be asked to provide the following information:
License plate number;
Make, model, and color of your vehicle; and
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and any identifying characteristics.
Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of your vehicle being stolen.
If you find your vehicle before authorities do, contact the police and your insurance company immediately.
Fall Season Safety Reminder For Charleston Harbor Homeowners
Charleston Harbor Association News
Posted by Community Manager (CW) on Sep 17, 2020 11:55 am
Friendly Fall Reminder
Now is the perfect time to trim those trees! Please remember that, although they are on the City easement, the trees closest to the street are the resident's responsibility to maintain and keep trimmed, ensuring the safety of anyone utilizing the sidewalk.
https://www.arboristsnearme.com/.../homeowner%E2%80%99s...
Our Kansas City Shoal Creek Community Interaction Officer encourages homeowners to also trim trees and bushes that may obstruct views or present a cover for prowlers and thieves.
There is a Dumpster Day scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2020, which will include leaf and brush debris drop off for your convenience.
Thank you.
Posted by Community Manager (CW) on Sep 17, 2020 11:55 am
Friendly Fall Reminder
Now is the perfect time to trim those trees! Please remember that, although they are on the City easement, the trees closest to the street are the resident's responsibility to maintain and keep trimmed, ensuring the safety of anyone utilizing the sidewalk.
https://www.arboristsnearme.com/.../homeowner%E2%80%99s...
Our Kansas City Shoal Creek Community Interaction Officer encourages homeowners to also trim trees and bushes that may obstruct views or present a cover for prowlers and thieves.
There is a Dumpster Day scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2020, which will include leaf and brush debris drop off for your convenience.
Thank you.
Identity Theft - Stay Alert
From the Clay County Sheriff's Department...
Preventing Identity Theft.
Neighbors,
Criminals need only a few pieces of your personal information to make you their next victim of Identity Theft. Some of the key pieces of information thieves will fish for include:
· Your Name
· Address
· Date of Birth
· Social Security Number
· Mother’s Maiden Name
This information allows them to commit several forms of fraud that include taking over your financial accounts, opening new bank accounts, making expensive purchases, applying for credit cards or loans, renting apartments, and establishing accounts with utility or phone service providers.
Some of the things you can do to protect your identify are:
· Shredding bills, receipts, credit card applications, insurance forms, bank statements, and other sensitive documents before throwing them away.
· If a credit card you’ve applied for doesn’t arrive in a timely manner, notify the issuing bank.
· Never, ever, provide personal information over the phone, unless you initiated the call and you feel it’s necessary and relevant for the purpose of your call.
· Don’t carry extra credit cards in your wallet or purse, and cancel the ones you no longer use.
· Opt out of pre-approved credit card offers, 1-888-5-OPTOUT (567-8688)
· National Do Not Call Registry, 1-888-382-1222 or www.donotcall.gov
If you’ve become a victim of Identity Theft, we recommend contacting these organizations in addition to law enforcement:
· Your creditors and banks to change all passwords and PINS.
· Credit bureaus to request a fraud alert.
· The Department of Revenue · Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271
· Nearest U.S. Postal Inspection Office
· Federal Trade Commission’s identity theft hotline at 1-877-438-4338 Please, stay safe and take care of one another.
Preventing Identity Theft.
Neighbors,
Criminals need only a few pieces of your personal information to make you their next victim of Identity Theft. Some of the key pieces of information thieves will fish for include:
· Your Name
· Address
· Date of Birth
· Social Security Number
· Mother’s Maiden Name
This information allows them to commit several forms of fraud that include taking over your financial accounts, opening new bank accounts, making expensive purchases, applying for credit cards or loans, renting apartments, and establishing accounts with utility or phone service providers.
Some of the things you can do to protect your identify are:
· Shredding bills, receipts, credit card applications, insurance forms, bank statements, and other sensitive documents before throwing them away.
· If a credit card you’ve applied for doesn’t arrive in a timely manner, notify the issuing bank.
· Never, ever, provide personal information over the phone, unless you initiated the call and you feel it’s necessary and relevant for the purpose of your call.
· Don’t carry extra credit cards in your wallet or purse, and cancel the ones you no longer use.
· Opt out of pre-approved credit card offers, 1-888-5-OPTOUT (567-8688)
· National Do Not Call Registry, 1-888-382-1222 or www.donotcall.gov
If you’ve become a victim of Identity Theft, we recommend contacting these organizations in addition to law enforcement:
· Your creditors and banks to change all passwords and PINS.
· Credit bureaus to request a fraud alert.
· The Department of Revenue · Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271
· Nearest U.S. Postal Inspection Office
· Federal Trade Commission’s identity theft hotline at 1-877-438-4338 Please, stay safe and take care of one another.
Reminder Alert - PREVENT CRIMINAL ACTIVITY IN OUR SUBDIVISION
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From Charleston Harbor Safety & Security Committee...
We received a weekly crime report that showed an auto theft (KCPD Case No. KC20059176) on 8-31-2020 from the 4700 block of NE 73rd St. (Woodbrooke Villas, just east of Charleston Harbor off of NE 72nd St.). Neighbors, that's close to all of us. We must assume that there are most likely criminals casing our neighborhood, so it is advised to take precautions: - If you park a vehicle in your driveway or on the street, please make sure that it is LOCKED and all valuables have been removed. Try to not leave any items in sight that may tempt a thief. - Leave a porch light on at night. Place an interior light on a timer so that it stays on during the night. This will help deter a thief. - Consider installing motion-sensing lighting (to the front and back of your property) that will turn on when someone approaches your property. - Consider installing a video doorbell that can detect and record movement outside your home. - Install a security warning yard sign or door-window stickers. (eBay is a good purchasing source) - Consider purchasing wireless video cameras that can be placed in an interior window that looks to the outside or mount a camera on the exterior of your home. (Amazon is a good source for exploring various models) - BE VIGILANT. If you notice unusual activity around your home, your neighbors' homes, or in your neighborhood, please report it immediately by calling 9-1-1. Remember, CRIME PREVENTION IS A COMMUNITY COMMITMENT. |
Elderly Being Targeted - Don't Being A Victim To A Scam
From our KCPD, Shoal Creek Patrol Community Interaction Officers comes the following article:
Financial scams also often go unreported or can be difficult to prosecute, so they’re considered a “low-risk” crime. However, they’re devastating to many older adults and can leave them in a very vulnerable position with little time to recoup their losses. It’s not just wealthy seniors who are targeted. Low-income older adults are also at risk of financial abuse. And it’s not always strangers who perpetrate these crimes. Over 90% of all reported elder abuse is committed by an older person’s own family members, most often their adult children, followed by grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and others.
Review our list below, so you can identify a potential scam.
1. Medicare/health insurance scams
Medicare enrollment formEvery U.S. citizen or permanent resident over age 65 qualifies for Medicare, so there is rarely any need for a scam artist to research what private health insurance company older people have in order to scam them out of some money. In these types of scams, perpetrators may pose as a Medicare representative to get older people to give them their personal information, or they will provide bogus services for elderly people at makeshift mobile clinics, then use the personal information they provide to bill Medicare and pocket the money.
2. Counterfeit prescription drugs
Most commonly, counterfeit drug scams operate on the Internet, where seniors increasingly go to find better prices on specialized medications. This scam is growing in popularity—since 2000, the FDA has investigated an average of 20 such cases per year, up from five a year in the 1990s. The danger is that besides paying money for something that will not help a person’s medical condition, victims may purchase unsafe substances that can inflict even more harm. This scam can be as hard on the body as it is on the wallet.
3. Funeral & cemetery scams
The FBI warns about two types of funeral and cemetery fraud perpetrated on seniors. In one approach, scammers read obituaries and call or attend the funeral service of a complete stranger to take advantage of the grieving widow or widower. Claiming the deceased had an outstanding debt with them, scammers will try to extort money from relatives to settle the fake debts. Another tactic of disreputable funeral homes is to capitalize on family members’ unfamiliarity with the considerable cost of funeral services to add unnecessary charges to the bill. In one common scam of this type, funeral directors will insist that a casket, usually one of the most expensive parts of funeral services, is necessary even when performing a direct cremation, which can be accomplished with a cardboard casket rather than an expensive display or burial casket.
4. Fraudulent anti-aging products
In a society bombarded with images of the young and beautiful, it’s not surprising that some older people feel the need to conceal their age in order to participate more fully in social circles and the workplace. After all, 60 is the new 40, right? It is in this spirit that many older Americans seek out new treatments and medications to maintain a youthful appearance, putting them at risk of scammers. Whether it’s fake Botox like the one in Arizona that netted its distributors (who were convicted and jailed in 2006) $1.5 million in barely a year, or completely bogus homeopathic remedies that do absolutely nothing, there is money in the anti-aging business. Botox scams are particularly unsettling, as renegade labs creating versions of the real thing may still be working with the root ingredient, botulism neurotoxin, which is one of the most toxic substances known to science. A bad batch can have health consequences far beyond wrinkles or drooping neck muscles.
5. Telemarketing/phone scams
Perhaps the most common scheme is when scammers use fake telemarketing calls to prey on older people, who as a group make twice as many purchases over the phone than the national average. While the image of the lonely senior citizen with nobody to talk to may have something to do with this, it is far more likely that older people are more familiar with shopping over the phone, and therefore might not be fully aware of the risk. With no face-to-face interaction, and no paper trail, these scams are incredibly hard to trace. Also, once a successful deal has been made, the buyer’s name is then shared with similar schemers looking for easy targets, sometimes defrauding the same person repeatedly. Examples of telemarketing fraud include: The pigeon drop The con artist tells the individual that he/she has found a large sum of money and is willing to split it if the person will make a “good faith” payment by withdrawing funds from his/her bank account. Often, a second con artist is involved, posing as a lawyer, banker, or some other trustworthy stranger. The fake accident ploy The con artist gets the victim to wire or send money on the pretext that the person’s child or another relative is in the hospital and needs the money. Charity scams Money is solicited for fake charities. This often occurs after natural disasters.
6. Internet fraud
While using the Internet is a great skill at any age, the slower speed of adoption among some older people makes them easier targets for automated Internet scams that are ubiquitous on the web and email programs. Pop-up browser windows simulating virus-scanning software will fool victims into either downloading a fake anti-virus program (at a substantial cost) or an actual virus that will open up whatever information is on the user’s computer to scammers. Their unfamiliarity with the less visible aspects of browsing the web (firewalls and built-in virus protection, for example) make seniors especially susceptible to such traps. One example includes: Email/phishing scams A senior receives email messages that appear to be from a legitimate company or institution, asking them to “update” or “verify” their personal information. A senior receives emails that appear to be from the IRS about a tax refund.
7. Investment schemes
Because many seniors find themselves planning for retirement and managing their savings once they finish working, a number of investment schemes have been targeted at seniors looking to safeguard their cash for their later years. From pyramid schemes like Bernie Madoff’s (which counted a number of senior citizens among its victims) to fables of a Nigerian prince looking for a partner to claim inheritance money to complex financial products that many economists don’t even understand, investment schemes have long been a successful way to take advantage of older people.
8. Homeowner/reverse mortgage scams
Scammers like to take advantage of the fact that many people above a certain age own their homes, a valuable asset that increases the potential dollar value of a certain scam. A particularly elaborate property tax scam in San Diego saw fraudsters sending personalized letters to different properties apparently on behalf of the County Assessor’s Office. The letter, made to look official but displaying only public information, would identify the property’s assessed value and offer the homeowner, for a fee of course, to arrange for a reassessment of the property’s value and therefore the tax burden associated with it. Closely related, there is the potential for a reverse mortgage borrower to be scammed. Scammers can take advantage of older adults who have recently unlocked equity in their homes. Those considering reverse mortgages should be cognizant of people in their lives pressuring them to obtain a reverse mortgage, or those that stand to benefit from the borrower accessing equity, such as home repair companies who approach the older adult directly.
9. Sweepstakes & lottery scams
This simple scam is one that many are familiar with, and it capitalizes on the notion that “there’s no such thing as a free lunch.” Here, scammers inform their mark that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes of some kind and need to make some sort of payment to unlock the supposed prize. Often, seniors will be sent a check that they can deposit in their bank account, knowing that while it shows up in their account immediately, it will take a few days before the (fake) check is rejected. During that time, the criminals will quickly collect money for supposed fees or taxes on the prize, which they pocket while the victim has the “prize money” removed from his or her account as soon as the check bounces.
10. The grandparent scam
Grandmother and granddaughterThe grandparent scam is so simple and so devious because it uses one of older adults’ most reliable assets, their hearts. Scammers will place a call to an older person and when the mark picks up, they will say something along the lines of: “Hi Grandma, do you know who this is?” When the unsuspecting grandparent guesses the name of the grandchild the scammer most sounds like, the scammer has established a fake identity without having done a lick of background research. Once “in,” the fake grandchild will usually ask for money to solve some unexpected financial problem (overdue rent, payment for car repairs, etc.), to be paid via Western Union or MoneyGram, which don’t always require identification to collect. At the same time, the scam artist will beg the grandparent “please don’t tell my parents, they would kill me.” While the sums from such a scam are likely to be in the hundreds, the very fact that no research is needed makes this a scam that can be perpetrated over and over at very little cost to the scammer.
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of a scam… Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it with someone you trust. You are not alone, and there are people who can help. Doing nothing could only make it worse. Keep handy the phone numbers and resources you can turn to, including the local police, your bank (if money has been taken from your accounts), and Adult Protective Services. To obtain the contact information for Adult Protective Services in your area, call the Eldercare Locator, a government sponsored national resource line, at: 1-800-677-1116, or visit their website at: https://eldercare.acl.gov.
Financial scams also often go unreported or can be difficult to prosecute, so they’re considered a “low-risk” crime. However, they’re devastating to many older adults and can leave them in a very vulnerable position with little time to recoup their losses. It’s not just wealthy seniors who are targeted. Low-income older adults are also at risk of financial abuse. And it’s not always strangers who perpetrate these crimes. Over 90% of all reported elder abuse is committed by an older person’s own family members, most often their adult children, followed by grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and others.
Review our list below, so you can identify a potential scam.
1. Medicare/health insurance scams
Medicare enrollment formEvery U.S. citizen or permanent resident over age 65 qualifies for Medicare, so there is rarely any need for a scam artist to research what private health insurance company older people have in order to scam them out of some money. In these types of scams, perpetrators may pose as a Medicare representative to get older people to give them their personal information, or they will provide bogus services for elderly people at makeshift mobile clinics, then use the personal information they provide to bill Medicare and pocket the money.
2. Counterfeit prescription drugs
Most commonly, counterfeit drug scams operate on the Internet, where seniors increasingly go to find better prices on specialized medications. This scam is growing in popularity—since 2000, the FDA has investigated an average of 20 such cases per year, up from five a year in the 1990s. The danger is that besides paying money for something that will not help a person’s medical condition, victims may purchase unsafe substances that can inflict even more harm. This scam can be as hard on the body as it is on the wallet.
3. Funeral & cemetery scams
The FBI warns about two types of funeral and cemetery fraud perpetrated on seniors. In one approach, scammers read obituaries and call or attend the funeral service of a complete stranger to take advantage of the grieving widow or widower. Claiming the deceased had an outstanding debt with them, scammers will try to extort money from relatives to settle the fake debts. Another tactic of disreputable funeral homes is to capitalize on family members’ unfamiliarity with the considerable cost of funeral services to add unnecessary charges to the bill. In one common scam of this type, funeral directors will insist that a casket, usually one of the most expensive parts of funeral services, is necessary even when performing a direct cremation, which can be accomplished with a cardboard casket rather than an expensive display or burial casket.
4. Fraudulent anti-aging products
In a society bombarded with images of the young and beautiful, it’s not surprising that some older people feel the need to conceal their age in order to participate more fully in social circles and the workplace. After all, 60 is the new 40, right? It is in this spirit that many older Americans seek out new treatments and medications to maintain a youthful appearance, putting them at risk of scammers. Whether it’s fake Botox like the one in Arizona that netted its distributors (who were convicted and jailed in 2006) $1.5 million in barely a year, or completely bogus homeopathic remedies that do absolutely nothing, there is money in the anti-aging business. Botox scams are particularly unsettling, as renegade labs creating versions of the real thing may still be working with the root ingredient, botulism neurotoxin, which is one of the most toxic substances known to science. A bad batch can have health consequences far beyond wrinkles or drooping neck muscles.
5. Telemarketing/phone scams
Perhaps the most common scheme is when scammers use fake telemarketing calls to prey on older people, who as a group make twice as many purchases over the phone than the national average. While the image of the lonely senior citizen with nobody to talk to may have something to do with this, it is far more likely that older people are more familiar with shopping over the phone, and therefore might not be fully aware of the risk. With no face-to-face interaction, and no paper trail, these scams are incredibly hard to trace. Also, once a successful deal has been made, the buyer’s name is then shared with similar schemers looking for easy targets, sometimes defrauding the same person repeatedly. Examples of telemarketing fraud include: The pigeon drop The con artist tells the individual that he/she has found a large sum of money and is willing to split it if the person will make a “good faith” payment by withdrawing funds from his/her bank account. Often, a second con artist is involved, posing as a lawyer, banker, or some other trustworthy stranger. The fake accident ploy The con artist gets the victim to wire or send money on the pretext that the person’s child or another relative is in the hospital and needs the money. Charity scams Money is solicited for fake charities. This often occurs after natural disasters.
6. Internet fraud
While using the Internet is a great skill at any age, the slower speed of adoption among some older people makes them easier targets for automated Internet scams that are ubiquitous on the web and email programs. Pop-up browser windows simulating virus-scanning software will fool victims into either downloading a fake anti-virus program (at a substantial cost) or an actual virus that will open up whatever information is on the user’s computer to scammers. Their unfamiliarity with the less visible aspects of browsing the web (firewalls and built-in virus protection, for example) make seniors especially susceptible to such traps. One example includes: Email/phishing scams A senior receives email messages that appear to be from a legitimate company or institution, asking them to “update” or “verify” their personal information. A senior receives emails that appear to be from the IRS about a tax refund.
7. Investment schemes
Because many seniors find themselves planning for retirement and managing their savings once they finish working, a number of investment schemes have been targeted at seniors looking to safeguard their cash for their later years. From pyramid schemes like Bernie Madoff’s (which counted a number of senior citizens among its victims) to fables of a Nigerian prince looking for a partner to claim inheritance money to complex financial products that many economists don’t even understand, investment schemes have long been a successful way to take advantage of older people.
8. Homeowner/reverse mortgage scams
Scammers like to take advantage of the fact that many people above a certain age own their homes, a valuable asset that increases the potential dollar value of a certain scam. A particularly elaborate property tax scam in San Diego saw fraudsters sending personalized letters to different properties apparently on behalf of the County Assessor’s Office. The letter, made to look official but displaying only public information, would identify the property’s assessed value and offer the homeowner, for a fee of course, to arrange for a reassessment of the property’s value and therefore the tax burden associated with it. Closely related, there is the potential for a reverse mortgage borrower to be scammed. Scammers can take advantage of older adults who have recently unlocked equity in their homes. Those considering reverse mortgages should be cognizant of people in their lives pressuring them to obtain a reverse mortgage, or those that stand to benefit from the borrower accessing equity, such as home repair companies who approach the older adult directly.
9. Sweepstakes & lottery scams
This simple scam is one that many are familiar with, and it capitalizes on the notion that “there’s no such thing as a free lunch.” Here, scammers inform their mark that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes of some kind and need to make some sort of payment to unlock the supposed prize. Often, seniors will be sent a check that they can deposit in their bank account, knowing that while it shows up in their account immediately, it will take a few days before the (fake) check is rejected. During that time, the criminals will quickly collect money for supposed fees or taxes on the prize, which they pocket while the victim has the “prize money” removed from his or her account as soon as the check bounces.
10. The grandparent scam
Grandmother and granddaughterThe grandparent scam is so simple and so devious because it uses one of older adults’ most reliable assets, their hearts. Scammers will place a call to an older person and when the mark picks up, they will say something along the lines of: “Hi Grandma, do you know who this is?” When the unsuspecting grandparent guesses the name of the grandchild the scammer most sounds like, the scammer has established a fake identity without having done a lick of background research. Once “in,” the fake grandchild will usually ask for money to solve some unexpected financial problem (overdue rent, payment for car repairs, etc.), to be paid via Western Union or MoneyGram, which don’t always require identification to collect. At the same time, the scam artist will beg the grandparent “please don’t tell my parents, they would kill me.” While the sums from such a scam are likely to be in the hundreds, the very fact that no research is needed makes this a scam that can be perpetrated over and over at very little cost to the scammer.
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of a scam… Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it with someone you trust. You are not alone, and there are people who can help. Doing nothing could only make it worse. Keep handy the phone numbers and resources you can turn to, including the local police, your bank (if money has been taken from your accounts), and Adult Protective Services. To obtain the contact information for Adult Protective Services in your area, call the Eldercare Locator, a government sponsored national resource line, at: 1-800-677-1116, or visit their website at: https://eldercare.acl.gov.
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Kids At Play - Help Keep Them Safe |
Safety-Kids at Play!
Summer will soon be in full swing, and for many of our younger residents that means they have the freedom to play outside to their heart's content (or at least until mom or dad call them back inside).
While we encourage kids to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, we also want everyone to be safe.
Currently, we have several Lots in the community that are under construction and/or will be breaking ground on.
Please DO NOT allow for your children to play on these Lots, as injuries could occur.
We appreciate your understanding while construction is on going.
Thank you.
Summer will soon be in full swing, and for many of our younger residents that means they have the freedom to play outside to their heart's content (or at least until mom or dad call them back inside).
While we encourage kids to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, we also want everyone to be safe.
Currently, we have several Lots in the community that are under construction and/or will be breaking ground on.
Please DO NOT allow for your children to play on these Lots, as injuries could occur.
We appreciate your understanding while construction is on going.
Thank you.
Stay Safe - Be Alert - Educate Yourself
Every 19 minutes, somewhere in Missouri, a murder, rape, robbery,or assault occurs. Many of these crimes are against women according to statistics provided by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Educating yourself and taking steps to avoid or minimize danger could help prevent your becoming a victim.
First, learn the four “As.”
Be Aware of your surroundings.
Be Alert to any unusual activities.
Avoid any potential problem areas.
Take Action on information gained
Even in the comfort of your own home, you may find yourself vulnerable to burglary, robbery, and sexual attack. The home can be bolstered to make it more secure. There are also things you can do that go a long way toward making the home a safe place, day or night.
Care should be taken when answering the door. A peephole, one-way mirror, or a two-way communications system can be installed in the door so you can see and/ or hear who is knocking or ringing your doorbell. Never open the door automatically after a knock. Require the caller to identify himself to your satisfaction. Be leery of strangers (men or women) who come to the door requesting help or to use your telephone. They may be looking for an opportunity to burglarize your home or to do you physical harm. Don’t let them inside your home! Rather, offer to summon emergency assistance or make a call for the stranger. Again, never allow a stranger into your home.
Another rule to help insure safety in your home is to stay away from the windows when you are disrobing or dressing. Close the blinds, drapes, or shades. A woman should not advertise she lives alone. Instead of a “Miss Mary Smith” nameplate on the mailbox, use “M. Smith.” The same holds true for the name listing in the telephone book. If possible, have a male relative or friend record the greeting on your answering machine.
Keep your home safe when you are away, even for a short period of time. Lock all entrances. Leave the drapes in the position you normally have them. Ask a friend or neighbor to pick up your mail and newspapers if you will be gone for more than a day. Have a radio and light on a timer to discourage intruders. Have your key ready in hand when you return home, and enter promptly.
A sad commentary of our times is that it is unsafe to walk on many of our streets — especially at night and for women alone. The best rule a woman can follow is to never walk alone at night. If you must walk alone, stay on well- lighted streets as much as possible. Walk facing traffic so you can see anyone who might be driving toward you. Carry a whistle in your hand, and blow it hard if there is trouble. Always be alert. Walk with confidence, with your head up, and look around. You will seem less like an easy target to an attacker. Purse snatching does occur. When walking, hold your purse on your side away from the street. Purses are sometimes grabbed by people in passing vehicles. Carry your purse close to your body. Hold it firmly with your hand or arm covering the clasp. Avoid dangling your purse by the strap away from your body. Make it a practice to close your purse. Vary the route and time of your walk. This is another good preventative measure you should take to avoid being a crime victim. Someone may be watching your walking habits, so avoid establishing a routine. (For example, don’t walk on the same street at the same time of day.) Again, walk with companions if possible, especially after dark. There is safety in numbers.
Women must be cautious when traveling alone.
Before getting into a car, look into the back seat to see if someone is hiding there. Have the door key in hand and enter the car promptly. Keep the windows rolled up and all doors locked as you travel. Don’t leave your purse on the passenger seat; you may be inviting theft. Place your purse on the floor.
BE ALERT!
Don’t go into the “lion’s den.” Avoid walking in areas that have a high incidence of crime. Stay away from these areas even if it means taking the long way to your destination. Be aware of a stranger in a vehicle offering to give you a ride. Unless you really know the person or persons in the vehicle, refuse he “helpful” offer of a ride. If anyone tries to force you into a vehicle, scream and scream loud, then try to run to the nearest place where there are people. Always be aware of what is going on around you.
BE ALERT!
Try to stick to the major traffic ways instead of side streets through questionable neighborhoods. This is especially true when driving at night. Try to avoid the curb lane when you stop at intersections. If someone approaches your car and attempts to get in, drive off, but watch for other cars and for pedestrians. Use commercial parking facilities whenever possible; otherwise, park in a well lighted area.
Be aware of unusual traffic crashes or persons approaching your vehicle. If the situation or persons look suspicious, be cautious. It may be a car-jacking or a bump-and-rob situation. Make sure you have enough gas (a half tank or more) in your car and have your tires, oil, and water checked periodically to prevent a possible breakdown. Car breakdowns make women easy targets. Inspect or have your car checked at least every six months. Be sure you have a properly inflated spare tire; also know how to change a tire if help is not available. You can drive on a flat tire, however, if you find yourself in a dark, unfamiliar area. It is better to drive to a safer, lighted area to change your tire.
If your vehicle does break down, stay inside and place a “SEND HELP” or “SEND POLICE” sign in your side or rear window. You are safer inside your vehicle than outside. If you see a stranded motorist displaying a “SEND HELP” sign, do not stop. Drive to the nearest telephone or use your cell phone to call for help.
If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and you are suspicious, keep your doors locked and only roll down your window far enough to communicate. You can ask to see an officer’s identification if you do not recognize the officer’s uniform. It is advised to call 911 and report your suspicions and ask for a supervisor to the scene. If you are driving along a dark stretch of road when stopped by an officer, you may drive a short distance to a better lit or more populated area to stop.
Remember: At Home
• Be careful when answering the door.
• Require callers to identify themselves before opening the door.
• Don’t advertise living alone.
• When away, keep a light on. Have your keys ready when you return.
Remember: On The Street
• Don’t walk alone at night.
• Carry a whistle and/or chemical mace (check your local ordinances).
• Don’t accept rides from strangers.
• Scream if being forced to enter a vehicle.
• There is safety in numbers.
Remember: In Your Car
• Check the back seat of your car before entering.
• Avoid the curb lane; keep doors locked.
• Don’t get out of your car in an emergency stop.
• Don’t pick up hitchhikers.
First, learn the four “As.”
Be Aware of your surroundings.
Be Alert to any unusual activities.
Avoid any potential problem areas.
Take Action on information gained
Even in the comfort of your own home, you may find yourself vulnerable to burglary, robbery, and sexual attack. The home can be bolstered to make it more secure. There are also things you can do that go a long way toward making the home a safe place, day or night.
Care should be taken when answering the door. A peephole, one-way mirror, or a two-way communications system can be installed in the door so you can see and/ or hear who is knocking or ringing your doorbell. Never open the door automatically after a knock. Require the caller to identify himself to your satisfaction. Be leery of strangers (men or women) who come to the door requesting help or to use your telephone. They may be looking for an opportunity to burglarize your home or to do you physical harm. Don’t let them inside your home! Rather, offer to summon emergency assistance or make a call for the stranger. Again, never allow a stranger into your home.
Another rule to help insure safety in your home is to stay away from the windows when you are disrobing or dressing. Close the blinds, drapes, or shades. A woman should not advertise she lives alone. Instead of a “Miss Mary Smith” nameplate on the mailbox, use “M. Smith.” The same holds true for the name listing in the telephone book. If possible, have a male relative or friend record the greeting on your answering machine.
Keep your home safe when you are away, even for a short period of time. Lock all entrances. Leave the drapes in the position you normally have them. Ask a friend or neighbor to pick up your mail and newspapers if you will be gone for more than a day. Have a radio and light on a timer to discourage intruders. Have your key ready in hand when you return home, and enter promptly.
A sad commentary of our times is that it is unsafe to walk on many of our streets — especially at night and for women alone. The best rule a woman can follow is to never walk alone at night. If you must walk alone, stay on well- lighted streets as much as possible. Walk facing traffic so you can see anyone who might be driving toward you. Carry a whistle in your hand, and blow it hard if there is trouble. Always be alert. Walk with confidence, with your head up, and look around. You will seem less like an easy target to an attacker. Purse snatching does occur. When walking, hold your purse on your side away from the street. Purses are sometimes grabbed by people in passing vehicles. Carry your purse close to your body. Hold it firmly with your hand or arm covering the clasp. Avoid dangling your purse by the strap away from your body. Make it a practice to close your purse. Vary the route and time of your walk. This is another good preventative measure you should take to avoid being a crime victim. Someone may be watching your walking habits, so avoid establishing a routine. (For example, don’t walk on the same street at the same time of day.) Again, walk with companions if possible, especially after dark. There is safety in numbers.
Women must be cautious when traveling alone.
Before getting into a car, look into the back seat to see if someone is hiding there. Have the door key in hand and enter the car promptly. Keep the windows rolled up and all doors locked as you travel. Don’t leave your purse on the passenger seat; you may be inviting theft. Place your purse on the floor.
BE ALERT!
Don’t go into the “lion’s den.” Avoid walking in areas that have a high incidence of crime. Stay away from these areas even if it means taking the long way to your destination. Be aware of a stranger in a vehicle offering to give you a ride. Unless you really know the person or persons in the vehicle, refuse he “helpful” offer of a ride. If anyone tries to force you into a vehicle, scream and scream loud, then try to run to the nearest place where there are people. Always be aware of what is going on around you.
BE ALERT!
Try to stick to the major traffic ways instead of side streets through questionable neighborhoods. This is especially true when driving at night. Try to avoid the curb lane when you stop at intersections. If someone approaches your car and attempts to get in, drive off, but watch for other cars and for pedestrians. Use commercial parking facilities whenever possible; otherwise, park in a well lighted area.
Be aware of unusual traffic crashes or persons approaching your vehicle. If the situation or persons look suspicious, be cautious. It may be a car-jacking or a bump-and-rob situation. Make sure you have enough gas (a half tank or more) in your car and have your tires, oil, and water checked periodically to prevent a possible breakdown. Car breakdowns make women easy targets. Inspect or have your car checked at least every six months. Be sure you have a properly inflated spare tire; also know how to change a tire if help is not available. You can drive on a flat tire, however, if you find yourself in a dark, unfamiliar area. It is better to drive to a safer, lighted area to change your tire.
If your vehicle does break down, stay inside and place a “SEND HELP” or “SEND POLICE” sign in your side or rear window. You are safer inside your vehicle than outside. If you see a stranded motorist displaying a “SEND HELP” sign, do not stop. Drive to the nearest telephone or use your cell phone to call for help.
If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and you are suspicious, keep your doors locked and only roll down your window far enough to communicate. You can ask to see an officer’s identification if you do not recognize the officer’s uniform. It is advised to call 911 and report your suspicions and ask for a supervisor to the scene. If you are driving along a dark stretch of road when stopped by an officer, you may drive a short distance to a better lit or more populated area to stop.
Remember: At Home
• Be careful when answering the door.
• Require callers to identify themselves before opening the door.
• Don’t advertise living alone.
• When away, keep a light on. Have your keys ready when you return.
Remember: On The Street
• Don’t walk alone at night.
• Carry a whistle and/or chemical mace (check your local ordinances).
• Don’t accept rides from strangers.
• Scream if being forced to enter a vehicle.
• There is safety in numbers.
Remember: In Your Car
• Check the back seat of your car before entering.
• Avoid the curb lane; keep doors locked.
• Don’t get out of your car in an emergency stop.
• Don’t pick up hitchhikers.
Protect Your Identity During The Holidays
You're focused on giving during the holidays, but crooks are focused on taking. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) offers the following tips to protect you from identity theft during the holidays:
Crowded malls and distracted shoppers are the perfect combination for a pick-pocket. Clutch purses closely with wallets as the bottom or in an inside coat pocket.
Don't carry cash. Charge your purchases or, if necessary, use a debit card. Credit cards are safer than debit cards. You can dispute a credit card purchase before paying it. With a debit card, the money goes out of your account immediately.
Guard your PIN at the ATM. If some-one is standing too close, ask him or her to step back. Thieves can install devices that read your information without you knowing. If you notice anything odd, use another ATM.
Don't let your credit card out of your sight. Unscrupulous clerks or waiters can copy your card or use a card reader that duplicates the card or sells your information.
When shopping, remove everything from your wallet that you don't need. If it's stolen, thieves won't get as much. Leave your Social Security card at home, along with your checkbook; carry only the checks you'll need.
Make copies of both sides of your credit cards. If you lose your wallet, you'll have easy access to account and phone numbers, allowing you to alert your bank immediately.
Check your credit card statements for unauthorized purchases as soon as they arrive, or check them online regularly. If anything is amiss, notify your bank immediately. This will likely remove any obligation you might have for fraudulent purchases.
Secure all personal information even while at home. During the holidays, you may have guests in your home. Remove temptation by putting personal information out of sight.
Consider signing up for a credit monitoring service, which will alert you to activity on your credit record. Such services are offered by all major credit bureaus.
If you are victimized by ID theft, contact an NFCC Member Agency at (800) 388-2227, or go online www.DebtAdvice.org. For a Spanish-speaking counselor, call (800) 682-9832.
For more information and tips about identity theft visit NFCC at www.ProtectYourIDNow.org
Crowded malls and distracted shoppers are the perfect combination for a pick-pocket. Clutch purses closely with wallets as the bottom or in an inside coat pocket.
Don't carry cash. Charge your purchases or, if necessary, use a debit card. Credit cards are safer than debit cards. You can dispute a credit card purchase before paying it. With a debit card, the money goes out of your account immediately.
Guard your PIN at the ATM. If some-one is standing too close, ask him or her to step back. Thieves can install devices that read your information without you knowing. If you notice anything odd, use another ATM.
Don't let your credit card out of your sight. Unscrupulous clerks or waiters can copy your card or use a card reader that duplicates the card or sells your information.
When shopping, remove everything from your wallet that you don't need. If it's stolen, thieves won't get as much. Leave your Social Security card at home, along with your checkbook; carry only the checks you'll need.
Make copies of both sides of your credit cards. If you lose your wallet, you'll have easy access to account and phone numbers, allowing you to alert your bank immediately.
Check your credit card statements for unauthorized purchases as soon as they arrive, or check them online regularly. If anything is amiss, notify your bank immediately. This will likely remove any obligation you might have for fraudulent purchases.
Secure all personal information even while at home. During the holidays, you may have guests in your home. Remove temptation by putting personal information out of sight.
Consider signing up for a credit monitoring service, which will alert you to activity on your credit record. Such services are offered by all major credit bureaus.
If you are victimized by ID theft, contact an NFCC Member Agency at (800) 388-2227, or go online www.DebtAdvice.org. For a Spanish-speaking counselor, call (800) 682-9832.
For more information and tips about identity theft visit NFCC at www.ProtectYourIDNow.org
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Stay Informed And Report Any Internet Crime Scheme
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation has established "The Internet Crime Complaint Center". This website allows a consumer to file a complaint and also has information on trending Internet Crime Schemes. Please take a look at this site. You never know if or when you may become a victim.
https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
Guard Against "Porch Pirates" This Holiday Season
From Community Interaction Officer William Keeney, Kansas City Police Department...
Ten Tips To Thwart Porch Pirates This Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us. FedEx, the United States Postal Service (USPS), United Parcel Service (UPS) and other trucking and delivery companies are expected to deliver billions of packages and mail. The estimate for the post office is that it will deliver more than 900 million packages. Add in UPS and FedEx, and more than 2 billion packages will be shipped between Thanksgiving and the end of the year.
That’s a lot of packages – and a lot of opportunity for thieves, also known as porch pirates, to snatch packages left on porches or other visible places. Don’t let thieves ruin the customer experience, or the gifting experience, by making it easy to steal your packages.
More than half of Americans say they know someone who has had a package stolen from outside their home. Almost a third have actually experienced stolen packages themselves, according to the Shorr Package Theft Report Survey. Shorr also reports that 53% of customers have changed their plans to make sure they were home for a package, even when they didn’t have to sign for it. How inconvenient! There has to be a better way!
Stealing packages from porches is not a new concept. Porch pirates have been doing it for years. And, it’s not just during the holiday season. My daughters live in New York City, in an apartment building without a doorman. Now, I’m not a pessimist, but I’m willing to bet that a package left unattended on the doorstep of their apartment building in the Lower East Side, where thousands of people walk by every day, will be a package that they will never see.
That said, they’ve protected their shipments by having their packages shipped to an Amazon Locker. There are 2,800 lockers located in more than 70 metropolitan areas in the U.S. They can be found in places like Whole Foods (owned by Amazon) and convenience stores. So, that’s tip No. 1. If you’re ordering from Amazon, and you don’t have a way to secure your deliveries, send them to an Amazon Locker. Don’t let porch pirates ruin your holiday.
Here are 10 ways to help prevent those packages from being stolen:
1.) Ship to an Amazon Locker. (See paragraph above.)
2.) Ship to a FedEx Office. FedEx will hold packages at the local FedEx Office. With more than 1,900 locations, it offers a safe and convenient way to keep packages from being stolen.
3.) Ship to the neighborhood grocery or drug store. If the 1,900 FedEx Office locations aren’t enough, there are another 11,000-plus locations that FedEx has partnered with including more than 8,900 Walgreens and Rite Aid locations and certain Albertsons and Kroger grocery stores.
4.) Send the packages to your work address. This is an easy one. If the boss will let you receive personal packages, problem solved.
5.) Send the packages to a friend. If you have friends or family who you know will be home, just use their address.
6.) Have the packages delivered to the inside of your Amazon’s Key Smart Lock Kit allows you to remotely unlock your door so a package can be delivered to the inside of your home. (Note: You must make the purchase from Amazon, but Amazon has just about everything!)
7.) Have the packages delivered to your car. If it is more convenient, have your package delivered to your car. The car needs to be at the correct address and be equipped with Amazon’s Key in-Car Delivery. (Note: You must make the purchase from Amazon.)
8.) Install an outdoor security camera. Check out the Maximus Camera Floodlight that will not only film but also send real-time alerts to your smartphone when the motion detector senses movement.
9.) Keep your property well lit. Sometimes those porch pirates will wait until dark before they do the evil deeds. That Maximus Camera Floodlight mentioned above has lights that go on when motion is detected, but it’s still a good idea to keep your property well-lit with landscape lighting. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. Just keep your sidewalk and porch nice and bright.
10.) Make it look like you are home. This is good common sense, regardless of whether or not you’re expecting a package. Lights going on and off inside a home will help keep burglars from not only stealing what’s sitting on your porch, but also from breaking into your home. The myTouchSmart system is an inexpensive, easy-to-operate system.
Bonus: While the 10 suggestions listed above will help thwart porch pirates from ruining your holiday, there is one sure way to guarantee your packages won’t be stolen off your porch. Get out, go to the store to enjoy some traditional holiday shopping and buy the gift in person! Happy holidays!
This POST was written by: Shep Hyken Chief Amazement Officer at Shepard Presentations, from Forbes.
Ten Tips To Thwart Porch Pirates This Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us. FedEx, the United States Postal Service (USPS), United Parcel Service (UPS) and other trucking and delivery companies are expected to deliver billions of packages and mail. The estimate for the post office is that it will deliver more than 900 million packages. Add in UPS and FedEx, and more than 2 billion packages will be shipped between Thanksgiving and the end of the year.
That’s a lot of packages – and a lot of opportunity for thieves, also known as porch pirates, to snatch packages left on porches or other visible places. Don’t let thieves ruin the customer experience, or the gifting experience, by making it easy to steal your packages.
More than half of Americans say they know someone who has had a package stolen from outside their home. Almost a third have actually experienced stolen packages themselves, according to the Shorr Package Theft Report Survey. Shorr also reports that 53% of customers have changed their plans to make sure they were home for a package, even when they didn’t have to sign for it. How inconvenient! There has to be a better way!
Stealing packages from porches is not a new concept. Porch pirates have been doing it for years. And, it’s not just during the holiday season. My daughters live in New York City, in an apartment building without a doorman. Now, I’m not a pessimist, but I’m willing to bet that a package left unattended on the doorstep of their apartment building in the Lower East Side, where thousands of people walk by every day, will be a package that they will never see.
That said, they’ve protected their shipments by having their packages shipped to an Amazon Locker. There are 2,800 lockers located in more than 70 metropolitan areas in the U.S. They can be found in places like Whole Foods (owned by Amazon) and convenience stores. So, that’s tip No. 1. If you’re ordering from Amazon, and you don’t have a way to secure your deliveries, send them to an Amazon Locker. Don’t let porch pirates ruin your holiday.
Here are 10 ways to help prevent those packages from being stolen:
1.) Ship to an Amazon Locker. (See paragraph above.)
2.) Ship to a FedEx Office. FedEx will hold packages at the local FedEx Office. With more than 1,900 locations, it offers a safe and convenient way to keep packages from being stolen.
3.) Ship to the neighborhood grocery or drug store. If the 1,900 FedEx Office locations aren’t enough, there are another 11,000-plus locations that FedEx has partnered with including more than 8,900 Walgreens and Rite Aid locations and certain Albertsons and Kroger grocery stores.
4.) Send the packages to your work address. This is an easy one. If the boss will let you receive personal packages, problem solved.
5.) Send the packages to a friend. If you have friends or family who you know will be home, just use their address.
6.) Have the packages delivered to the inside of your Amazon’s Key Smart Lock Kit allows you to remotely unlock your door so a package can be delivered to the inside of your home. (Note: You must make the purchase from Amazon, but Amazon has just about everything!)
7.) Have the packages delivered to your car. If it is more convenient, have your package delivered to your car. The car needs to be at the correct address and be equipped with Amazon’s Key in-Car Delivery. (Note: You must make the purchase from Amazon.)
8.) Install an outdoor security camera. Check out the Maximus Camera Floodlight that will not only film but also send real-time alerts to your smartphone when the motion detector senses movement.
9.) Keep your property well lit. Sometimes those porch pirates will wait until dark before they do the evil deeds. That Maximus Camera Floodlight mentioned above has lights that go on when motion is detected, but it’s still a good idea to keep your property well-lit with landscape lighting. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. Just keep your sidewalk and porch nice and bright.
10.) Make it look like you are home. This is good common sense, regardless of whether or not you’re expecting a package. Lights going on and off inside a home will help keep burglars from not only stealing what’s sitting on your porch, but also from breaking into your home. The myTouchSmart system is an inexpensive, easy-to-operate system.
Bonus: While the 10 suggestions listed above will help thwart porch pirates from ruining your holiday, there is one sure way to guarantee your packages won’t be stolen off your porch. Get out, go to the store to enjoy some traditional holiday shopping and buy the gift in person! Happy holidays!
This POST was written by: Shep Hyken Chief Amazement Officer at Shepard Presentations, from Forbes.
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Kansas City Police Dept. Recommends That Citizens Visit Their "Crime Prevention & Safety Tips" Website |
Be Prepared For Winter Driving And Need For A Tow
From Community Interaction Officer William Keeney, Kansas City Police Department
Be prepared, for a winter with slick roads:
Great advice from Officer Bryan Masterson: “Towing Your Vehicle After an Accident”
Are you prepared for traveling ice and snow covered roads this winter?
Does that include keeping the phone number for a local tow company in your vehicle?
Please consider planning ahead to avoid excessive tow fees.
Who will tow your vehicle?
Where will it go?
Can you tow it to your local body shop after hours?
Will there be storage fees?
Who will pay for the tow?
Insurance?
The other driver?
Ultimately, it's your responsibility. Finding out who is liable is not a quick process, so you may have to pay the bill up front and ask to be reimbursed later. I spoke with someone recently who had a tow bill for over $900. There is no reason to have such a large tow bill, but while the vast majority of tow operators are honest people, there are some who are not.
Find a reputable tow company before you need one.
Find out their fees and whether or not they operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Contact friends, family, your local insurance agent or a local body shop for a recommendation.
A legitimate tow company will list their fees up front and provide a form with that information on it.
Get a copy of the paperwork showing the fees and location the vehicle will be dropped off. If a tow company charges you $1,000 and you agree, there's nothing illegal about that! Without a receipt, it's your word against theirs as to what fee you both agreed upon.
If your insurance company orders a tow for you, try to find out the name of the tow company they ordered. Ask the tow driver who responds what your name is and which insurance company ordered them. If they were sent by your insurance company, they should know who called them and who they need to contact at the scene.
If a police officer is on the scene, feel free to ask an officer what your options are. We can order a tow truck from an approved list, but it's still a private contract between you and the company. While that fee may seem high (currently $265 for normal/light duty tows), it is a set fee and ordering a tow through a police officer can help prevent a $900 bill.
If you don't order your own tow, we have an obligation to clear the roadway and will order a tow for you. It will be the same $265 tow fee , but it will be towed to our city tow lot and start to accrue storage fees and it will still need to be towed out of the city tow lot once you pay the city's fee.
Planning ahead can save you time and money. Stay safe and smart this winter season. Thank you for reading this entire long-winded post!
Be prepared, for a winter with slick roads:
Great advice from Officer Bryan Masterson: “Towing Your Vehicle After an Accident”
Are you prepared for traveling ice and snow covered roads this winter?
Does that include keeping the phone number for a local tow company in your vehicle?
Please consider planning ahead to avoid excessive tow fees.
Who will tow your vehicle?
Where will it go?
Can you tow it to your local body shop after hours?
Will there be storage fees?
Who will pay for the tow?
Insurance?
The other driver?
Ultimately, it's your responsibility. Finding out who is liable is not a quick process, so you may have to pay the bill up front and ask to be reimbursed later. I spoke with someone recently who had a tow bill for over $900. There is no reason to have such a large tow bill, but while the vast majority of tow operators are honest people, there are some who are not.
Find a reputable tow company before you need one.
Find out their fees and whether or not they operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Contact friends, family, your local insurance agent or a local body shop for a recommendation.
A legitimate tow company will list their fees up front and provide a form with that information on it.
Get a copy of the paperwork showing the fees and location the vehicle will be dropped off. If a tow company charges you $1,000 and you agree, there's nothing illegal about that! Without a receipt, it's your word against theirs as to what fee you both agreed upon.
If your insurance company orders a tow for you, try to find out the name of the tow company they ordered. Ask the tow driver who responds what your name is and which insurance company ordered them. If they were sent by your insurance company, they should know who called them and who they need to contact at the scene.
If a police officer is on the scene, feel free to ask an officer what your options are. We can order a tow truck from an approved list, but it's still a private contract between you and the company. While that fee may seem high (currently $265 for normal/light duty tows), it is a set fee and ordering a tow through a police officer can help prevent a $900 bill.
If you don't order your own tow, we have an obligation to clear the roadway and will order a tow for you. It will be the same $265 tow fee , but it will be towed to our city tow lot and start to accrue storage fees and it will still need to be towed out of the city tow lot once you pay the city's fee.
Planning ahead can save you time and money. Stay safe and smart this winter season. Thank you for reading this entire long-winded post!
Garage Door Openers & Open Garages
From Shoal Creek Patrol Station...July 29, 2019
We are having an increase in Vehicles getting broken into. Yet another thing that is happening is they are looking for garage door openers. (Easy access into homes.)
We had 9 burglaries in the Shoal Creek Patrol Division last week. Three of those were wide open garages and the suspect walked right into the home. One was a storage locker yet more than several were entered after their vehicle was ransacked and the garage door opener was taken out of the vehicle, then used to gain access into their homes. The scary part is two of the burglaries the suspect walked in on someone who was home. Luckily this scared the suspect and both times took off on foot.
We recommend that people bring in their Garage door openers as well making sure they don't leave their Garages Wide open and unattended.
3 PROVEN STRATEGIES TO PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME
The best way to prevent crime is to be aware of the potential risks and being alert to situations that make you vulnerable. Property crime can be tragic, dangerous, and expensive.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the 3 major components of property crime are categorized as burglary and larceny, arson, and motor vehicle theft, with larceny being the largest.
The FBI keeps crime statistics that are self reported by each state, show a property crime is committed every 3.5 seconds in the United States.
Not only is property crime risky due to the criminal activity, it is also costly. Replacing stolen goods or repairing damaged property can be costly. So how do you protect your property from these incidents?
PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME WITH EDUCATION
The first way to improve safety and security in your neighborhood is easy to implement. Educate yourself and your neighbors. Learning all about you, your neighbors, your area, and what to look out for. The more information you have, the more powerful you are.
First get to know your neighbors. When you know who belongs in your neighborhood, someone new will stick out quicker. For example, if people know you and your home, they’re going to know if someone unfamiliar is coming in and out when you’re not there. They can alert you and the authorities to the suspicious activity. Another example is if someone’s child is causing destruction to property and you recognize the child – you’re going to be able to go to the parents to take care of the situation.
Secondly inform yourself about the crimes in the neighborhood. Read the local newspaper or check crime statistic websites. By doing this you are more aware of common risks to look out for around the neighborhood.
Third, talk to law enforcement (Each Division in KCMO has a Community Interaction Officer) as well. By developing a good relationship, you help make their life easier by keeping them informed of the incidents that occur in your neighborhood. In addition, they can help you and your neighbors with information and education regarding community crimes you might encounter. One thing to note: please don’t contact emergency lines unless there is an emergency. Those lines are to make sure that people get emergency services right away all over town. If you are using their time, someone else who really needs it might not get the assistance. Instead, walk into the local police station to ask for information. That way someone can help you without taking time away from the emergency services. But isn’t it nosey to pay that much attention to my neighbors? It’s true there’s a stereotype of a nosy old neighbor that’s a nuisance to everyone by always being involved of other people’s business – but note that this is just a stereotype. The reality is most neighbors appreciate having an extra pair of eyes on their home when they’re not around. It keeps them safe and keeps their belongings safe.
Don’t you like the idea of someone helping you when you’re not around?
PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME WITH ORGANIZATION
Organizing the community helps keep everyone on the same page and provides some actionable items to assist with preventing crime.
Community organizations often go by many names. Often called “neighborhood watch”, “community watch”, or even “block party” – the intent is to develop relationships with neighbors and strengthen the communities. (Contact your Community Interaction Officer if you are interested) Especially for neighborhood watches, there are 3 major goals of community meetings. Watch for suspicious activity, marking property to indicate ownership, and conducting home security surveys.
In 1972 the National Sheriffs’ Association encouraged community service and involvement with its main purpose to train citizens to become the “eyes and ears of law enforcement,”. USAonWatch.org shows about 22,000 formal neighborhood watch groups have started in the last decade; more than twice as many informal groups are estimated to exist.
In a neighborhood watch, teams typically organize nightly patrols. These involve groups of individuals walking the area routinely to familiarize themselves with the environment and looking for unusual or suspicious activity. One thing to note: these are not vigilante groups. If you encounter a suspect, do not engage and try to fight the individual. Instead contact the police immediately. The intent of nightly patrols is to learn about crime prevention and their neighborhood.
Studies have shown having the presence of a neighborhood watch can deter most property crimes, by showing criminals that communities are aware and know how to spot suspicious activity quickly. Don’t think that neighborhood watch parties are your only opportunity though.
Community block parties are effective as well. One they bring neighbors together and strengthen relationships which creates a tighter sense of community. And the presence of positive groups in the neighborhood often called “positive loitering” deters criminals. Block parties also boost morale. It strengthens bonds to celebrate together and those tighter bonds will help allow each other to look out for one another and the group as a whole.
Neighborhood watches and block parties are not without disadvantages. Often times they can easily go astray with no guidance. And if alcohol is involved, there is always a risk in a large group of something happening. Remember to stay positive and stay smart!
PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME WITH IMPROVEMENTS
Improving your neighborhood helps prevent crime by providing a safer place for everyone. One obvious choice is to improve street lights. Dim lights make it easy for criminals to go unnoticed, so install more or brighter lights to deter criminals by making it too easy for them to be spotted or caught.
Another option is to incorporate CCTV. CCTV stands for Closed Circuit TV. It basically means you can capture video and display it on a small TV that only certain people can access. They work in two ways – having them visible deters criminals because they don’t want to be caught on camera. It also works by catching criminals after the fact and using video evidence to prosecute them.
A different way to improve the community is to keep property safe with changes to car traffic. Speeding cars can account for numerous accidents to both pedestrians and property. By installing roundabouts, medians, or curbs – traffic slows down and pays more attention to their surroundings.
CONCLUSION These 3 methods are simple and can be incorporated into your neighborhood pretty quickly and easily. By educating, organizing, and improving the community – you could lower crime rates substantially.
Property crime happens every 3.5 seconds in the United States. Simply getting neighbors together, learning more about each other and the area, and helping out the community goes a long way to keeping your neighborhood safe.
If you are interested in Crime Prevention contact:
P.O. Rick Jones #4598 Community Interaction Officer Kansas City, MO Police Department Shoal Creek Patrol Division 6801 NE Pleasant Valley Rd Kansas City, MO 64119 (816)949-1760 Office (richard.jones@kcpd.org)
or
Officer Bill Keeney Community Interaction Officer Shoal Creek Patrol Division, KCPD 6801 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. KCMO 64119 WP(816)413-3440 (William.keeney@kcpd.org)
We are having an increase in Vehicles getting broken into. Yet another thing that is happening is they are looking for garage door openers. (Easy access into homes.)
We had 9 burglaries in the Shoal Creek Patrol Division last week. Three of those were wide open garages and the suspect walked right into the home. One was a storage locker yet more than several were entered after their vehicle was ransacked and the garage door opener was taken out of the vehicle, then used to gain access into their homes. The scary part is two of the burglaries the suspect walked in on someone who was home. Luckily this scared the suspect and both times took off on foot.
We recommend that people bring in their Garage door openers as well making sure they don't leave their Garages Wide open and unattended.
3 PROVEN STRATEGIES TO PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME
The best way to prevent crime is to be aware of the potential risks and being alert to situations that make you vulnerable. Property crime can be tragic, dangerous, and expensive.
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the 3 major components of property crime are categorized as burglary and larceny, arson, and motor vehicle theft, with larceny being the largest.
The FBI keeps crime statistics that are self reported by each state, show a property crime is committed every 3.5 seconds in the United States.
Not only is property crime risky due to the criminal activity, it is also costly. Replacing stolen goods or repairing damaged property can be costly. So how do you protect your property from these incidents?
PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME WITH EDUCATION
The first way to improve safety and security in your neighborhood is easy to implement. Educate yourself and your neighbors. Learning all about you, your neighbors, your area, and what to look out for. The more information you have, the more powerful you are.
First get to know your neighbors. When you know who belongs in your neighborhood, someone new will stick out quicker. For example, if people know you and your home, they’re going to know if someone unfamiliar is coming in and out when you’re not there. They can alert you and the authorities to the suspicious activity. Another example is if someone’s child is causing destruction to property and you recognize the child – you’re going to be able to go to the parents to take care of the situation.
Secondly inform yourself about the crimes in the neighborhood. Read the local newspaper or check crime statistic websites. By doing this you are more aware of common risks to look out for around the neighborhood.
Third, talk to law enforcement (Each Division in KCMO has a Community Interaction Officer) as well. By developing a good relationship, you help make their life easier by keeping them informed of the incidents that occur in your neighborhood. In addition, they can help you and your neighbors with information and education regarding community crimes you might encounter. One thing to note: please don’t contact emergency lines unless there is an emergency. Those lines are to make sure that people get emergency services right away all over town. If you are using their time, someone else who really needs it might not get the assistance. Instead, walk into the local police station to ask for information. That way someone can help you without taking time away from the emergency services. But isn’t it nosey to pay that much attention to my neighbors? It’s true there’s a stereotype of a nosy old neighbor that’s a nuisance to everyone by always being involved of other people’s business – but note that this is just a stereotype. The reality is most neighbors appreciate having an extra pair of eyes on their home when they’re not around. It keeps them safe and keeps their belongings safe.
Don’t you like the idea of someone helping you when you’re not around?
PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME WITH ORGANIZATION
Organizing the community helps keep everyone on the same page and provides some actionable items to assist with preventing crime.
Community organizations often go by many names. Often called “neighborhood watch”, “community watch”, or even “block party” – the intent is to develop relationships with neighbors and strengthen the communities. (Contact your Community Interaction Officer if you are interested) Especially for neighborhood watches, there are 3 major goals of community meetings. Watch for suspicious activity, marking property to indicate ownership, and conducting home security surveys.
In 1972 the National Sheriffs’ Association encouraged community service and involvement with its main purpose to train citizens to become the “eyes and ears of law enforcement,”. USAonWatch.org shows about 22,000 formal neighborhood watch groups have started in the last decade; more than twice as many informal groups are estimated to exist.
In a neighborhood watch, teams typically organize nightly patrols. These involve groups of individuals walking the area routinely to familiarize themselves with the environment and looking for unusual or suspicious activity. One thing to note: these are not vigilante groups. If you encounter a suspect, do not engage and try to fight the individual. Instead contact the police immediately. The intent of nightly patrols is to learn about crime prevention and their neighborhood.
Studies have shown having the presence of a neighborhood watch can deter most property crimes, by showing criminals that communities are aware and know how to spot suspicious activity quickly. Don’t think that neighborhood watch parties are your only opportunity though.
Community block parties are effective as well. One they bring neighbors together and strengthen relationships which creates a tighter sense of community. And the presence of positive groups in the neighborhood often called “positive loitering” deters criminals. Block parties also boost morale. It strengthens bonds to celebrate together and those tighter bonds will help allow each other to look out for one another and the group as a whole.
Neighborhood watches and block parties are not without disadvantages. Often times they can easily go astray with no guidance. And if alcohol is involved, there is always a risk in a large group of something happening. Remember to stay positive and stay smart!
PREVENT PROPERTY CRIME WITH IMPROVEMENTS
Improving your neighborhood helps prevent crime by providing a safer place for everyone. One obvious choice is to improve street lights. Dim lights make it easy for criminals to go unnoticed, so install more or brighter lights to deter criminals by making it too easy for them to be spotted or caught.
Another option is to incorporate CCTV. CCTV stands for Closed Circuit TV. It basically means you can capture video and display it on a small TV that only certain people can access. They work in two ways – having them visible deters criminals because they don’t want to be caught on camera. It also works by catching criminals after the fact and using video evidence to prosecute them.
A different way to improve the community is to keep property safe with changes to car traffic. Speeding cars can account for numerous accidents to both pedestrians and property. By installing roundabouts, medians, or curbs – traffic slows down and pays more attention to their surroundings.
CONCLUSION These 3 methods are simple and can be incorporated into your neighborhood pretty quickly and easily. By educating, organizing, and improving the community – you could lower crime rates substantially.
Property crime happens every 3.5 seconds in the United States. Simply getting neighbors together, learning more about each other and the area, and helping out the community goes a long way to keeping your neighborhood safe.
If you are interested in Crime Prevention contact:
P.O. Rick Jones #4598 Community Interaction Officer Kansas City, MO Police Department Shoal Creek Patrol Division 6801 NE Pleasant Valley Rd Kansas City, MO 64119 (816)949-1760 Office (richard.jones@kcpd.org)
or
Officer Bill Keeney Community Interaction Officer Shoal Creek Patrol Division, KCPD 6801 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. KCMO 64119 WP(816)413-3440 (William.keeney@kcpd.org)
Speeding is a growing problem.........
From William Keeney, KCPD Community Interaction Officer, Shoal Creek Patrol Division...
I receive speeding complaints constantly. There even has been News stories, from frustrated citizens. You can google "Speeding in KCMO" and find the different stories. Such complaints include, "We have motorcycles, four wheelers and cars racing up and down streets and there never is a Police Officer to be found, where are they?"
SO.....The number one question is, how can I get an Officer to address this problem? When it is a City wide problem. Did you know you can submit a complaint on line? Its easy and quick, below at the end of this article is the LINK. Make sure you ask to be contacted in your narrative and give a phone number, email or some way the Officers can contact you. This way you will know if it is actually being addressed.
Traffic Complaints
If you need immediate police attention for an emergency situation, do not use this. Instead, call 911. The online traffic complaint form is designed to allow residents of Kansas City, Mo., to report directly to the KCPD traffic problems that are occurring either in their neighborhood or in a particular part of the city. Examples of such complaints are speeding vehicles, vehicles running stop signs, making illegal turns, failing to yield at crosswalks and other hazardous violations.
For issues such as malfunctioning traffic lights, missing street signs, potholes, etc., please report these by using the City’s 311 Action Center. Call 311 or 816-513-1313. This complaint form should not be used to file a complaint about having received a traffic citation or to complain about the behavior of a member of the KCPD. For those issues, please contact the patrol division station responsible for the area in which you live. If you submit this form, an officer could contact you to clarify information, report enforcement activity or to follow up with you on the results of your complaint. Therefore, your contact information is required. Anonymous complaints will be received, but no action will be taken. Your information will be considered confidential and will not be released to any outside individual or organization.
Click on the LINK below and then in the search on the web page type in Traffic Complaint. This will take you to the on line form. www.kcpd.org (Traffic Complaints)
I receive speeding complaints constantly. There even has been News stories, from frustrated citizens. You can google "Speeding in KCMO" and find the different stories. Such complaints include, "We have motorcycles, four wheelers and cars racing up and down streets and there never is a Police Officer to be found, where are they?"
SO.....The number one question is, how can I get an Officer to address this problem? When it is a City wide problem. Did you know you can submit a complaint on line? Its easy and quick, below at the end of this article is the LINK. Make sure you ask to be contacted in your narrative and give a phone number, email or some way the Officers can contact you. This way you will know if it is actually being addressed.
Traffic Complaints
If you need immediate police attention for an emergency situation, do not use this. Instead, call 911. The online traffic complaint form is designed to allow residents of Kansas City, Mo., to report directly to the KCPD traffic problems that are occurring either in their neighborhood or in a particular part of the city. Examples of such complaints are speeding vehicles, vehicles running stop signs, making illegal turns, failing to yield at crosswalks and other hazardous violations.
For issues such as malfunctioning traffic lights, missing street signs, potholes, etc., please report these by using the City’s 311 Action Center. Call 311 or 816-513-1313. This complaint form should not be used to file a complaint about having received a traffic citation or to complain about the behavior of a member of the KCPD. For those issues, please contact the patrol division station responsible for the area in which you live. If you submit this form, an officer could contact you to clarify information, report enforcement activity or to follow up with you on the results of your complaint. Therefore, your contact information is required. Anonymous complaints will be received, but no action will be taken. Your information will be considered confidential and will not be released to any outside individual or organization.
Click on the LINK below and then in the search on the web page type in Traffic Complaint. This will take you to the on line form. www.kcpd.org (Traffic Complaints)
Crime Reports App indicates Auto Theft Within Charleston Harbor Subdivision
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Recently the Crime Reports App used by the Kansas City Police Dept. and the community became active once again after a long absence.
Notice was received today that Charleston Harbor had a crime reported on June 4, 2019 around 11:00 p.m. It was the theft of an auto from the 6700 block of Charleston Dr. near the NE 67th Ct. intersection. KCMO PD Case No. KC19041654 |
Reports Of Prowling Around Vehicles In The Northland
Community Member reports prowling around vehicle...Check your cameras and surveillance for car prowlers and if you have actual footage of individuals pulling on car door handles email it to me (William.Keeney@kcpd.org) with date, time and location.
The reason is, late Saturday evening in the New Mark neighborhood, a neighbor sees some individual going car to car pulling on handles......here is what he reported: “Just chased off someone checking cars to see if they were open. My dogs woke me up and alerted to someone across the street. Watched for a minute and saw a guy dressed in black going from house to house checking car doors. Yelled at him and off he went. Sound of small motorcycle taking off before I could get to the side of the house. Girlfriend says she has seen small motorcycle with 2 riders in the neighborhood before. Both dressed in black. Newmarket Fox Hills area. The one guy I saw was skinny dressed in black and either wearing black face covering or black hoody. Most likely 2 involved. 1 on the bike and 1 checking cars.
Keep your cars locked. This is a crime of opportunity so don’t make it easy for them.”
Reminders:
Don’t leave valuables in vehicle..
Lock Your Doors. ...
Remove Your Keys from the Vehicle. ...
Do Not Leave a Spare Key Near Your Vehicle. ...
Close the Windows. ...
Park in Well-Lit Areas. ...
Install an Audible Alarm System and Anti-Theft Device. ...
Install a Vehicle Immobilizer System. ...
Install a Tracking System.
Any questions please feel free to contact me: Officer Bill Keeney, Community Interaction Officer Shoal Creek Patrol Division, KCPD 6801 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. KCMO 64119
WP(816)413-3440
FX(816)413-8111
William.keeney@kcpd.org
The reason is, late Saturday evening in the New Mark neighborhood, a neighbor sees some individual going car to car pulling on handles......here is what he reported: “Just chased off someone checking cars to see if they were open. My dogs woke me up and alerted to someone across the street. Watched for a minute and saw a guy dressed in black going from house to house checking car doors. Yelled at him and off he went. Sound of small motorcycle taking off before I could get to the side of the house. Girlfriend says she has seen small motorcycle with 2 riders in the neighborhood before. Both dressed in black. Newmarket Fox Hills area. The one guy I saw was skinny dressed in black and either wearing black face covering or black hoody. Most likely 2 involved. 1 on the bike and 1 checking cars.
Keep your cars locked. This is a crime of opportunity so don’t make it easy for them.”
Reminders:
Don’t leave valuables in vehicle..
Lock Your Doors. ...
Remove Your Keys from the Vehicle. ...
Do Not Leave a Spare Key Near Your Vehicle. ...
Close the Windows. ...
Park in Well-Lit Areas. ...
Install an Audible Alarm System and Anti-Theft Device. ...
Install a Vehicle Immobilizer System. ...
Install a Tracking System.
Any questions please feel free to contact me: Officer Bill Keeney, Community Interaction Officer Shoal Creek Patrol Division, KCPD 6801 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. KCMO 64119
WP(816)413-3440
FX(816)413-8111
William.keeney@kcpd.org
Free Church Active Shooter Training
When: June 3rd at 7 pm
Where: KCPD Police Academy 6885 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. KCMO 64119
Sergeant Steven Schramm of the Kansas City Police Department will headline this free event: “Safety & Security in Active Shooter Response”
Sgt. Schramm will address preemptive and response procedures in the face of an active shooting incident. According to the U.S. gun violence archive, more than 54,000 gun-related incidents have been recorded in 2017, accounting for 14,000 deaths. Sgt. Schramm, will speak about emergency preparedness and response plans, security and risk assessments, and immediate actions to take during a shooting.
Church Shootings in the United States from 1999 to 2017 1999
Wedgewood Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas 2001
Greater Oak Missionary Baptist Church in Hopkinsville, Kentucky 2002
Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Lynbrook, New York 2003
Turner Monumental AME Church in Kirkwood, Georgia 2005
Living Church of God in Brookfield, Wisconsin 2005 World Changers Church in College Park, Georgia 2006
Zion Hope Missionary Baptist in Detroit, Michigan 2006
Ministry of Jesus Christ Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana 2007
First Presbyterian Church in Moscow, Idaho 2007
First Congregational Church in Neosho, Missouri 2007
New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado 2008
First Baptist Church in Maryville, Illinois 2009
Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kansas 2012
World Changers Church in College Park, Georgia 2015
Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina 2017
Burnette Chapel Church of Christ in Antioch, Tennessee 2017
First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas 2017
Gun violence is unpredictable and happens quickly. It’s crucial that a community respond instantaneously and in an organized manner, which may be difficult to do without preparation and training. We hope to see you at this training.
https://maps.google.com/maps?safe=strict&rlz=1CDGOYI_enUS758US758&hl=en-US&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=us&entry=s&sa=X&ftid=0x87c0f8bfaaaaaaab:0xc84915a6f30ca210&gmm=
Where: KCPD Police Academy 6885 NE Pleasant Valley Rd. KCMO 64119
Sergeant Steven Schramm of the Kansas City Police Department will headline this free event: “Safety & Security in Active Shooter Response”
Sgt. Schramm will address preemptive and response procedures in the face of an active shooting incident. According to the U.S. gun violence archive, more than 54,000 gun-related incidents have been recorded in 2017, accounting for 14,000 deaths. Sgt. Schramm, will speak about emergency preparedness and response plans, security and risk assessments, and immediate actions to take during a shooting.
Church Shootings in the United States from 1999 to 2017 1999
Wedgewood Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas 2001
Greater Oak Missionary Baptist Church in Hopkinsville, Kentucky 2002
Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Lynbrook, New York 2003
Turner Monumental AME Church in Kirkwood, Georgia 2005
Living Church of God in Brookfield, Wisconsin 2005 World Changers Church in College Park, Georgia 2006
Zion Hope Missionary Baptist in Detroit, Michigan 2006
Ministry of Jesus Christ Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana 2007
First Presbyterian Church in Moscow, Idaho 2007
First Congregational Church in Neosho, Missouri 2007
New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado 2008
First Baptist Church in Maryville, Illinois 2009
Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kansas 2012
World Changers Church in College Park, Georgia 2015
Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina 2017
Burnette Chapel Church of Christ in Antioch, Tennessee 2017
First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas 2017
Gun violence is unpredictable and happens quickly. It’s crucial that a community respond instantaneously and in an organized manner, which may be difficult to do without preparation and training. We hope to see you at this training.
https://maps.google.com/maps?safe=strict&rlz=1CDGOYI_enUS758US758&hl=en-US&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=us&entry=s&sa=X&ftid=0x87c0f8bfaaaaaaab:0xc84915a6f30ca210&gmm=
Neighborhood Watch Signs Being Installed Today Within The Charleston Harbor Subdivision
Your Charleston Harbor Safety & Security Committee is pleased to announce that the installation of recommended Neighborhood Watch signs is being done today by the KCMO City Works Dept. The signs were provided in partnership with the City of Kansas City, the Police Department, NNI and the Charleston Harbor HOA. Our KCPD Community Interaction Officer, Rick Jones, performed a sign review for our neighborhood and recommended the location of the signs throughout our subdivision.
The signs will serve as a deterrent to crime coming into our neighborhood. Just a reminder that any Crime Watch initiative is only effective when there is involvement by the community homeowners. Each of us need to watch out for our own property and that of other neighbors. IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, THEN SAY SOMETHING - CALL 9-1-1 and report suspicious activity or criminal activity in process.
The signs will serve as a deterrent to crime coming into our neighborhood. Just a reminder that any Crime Watch initiative is only effective when there is involvement by the community homeowners. Each of us need to watch out for our own property and that of other neighbors. IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, THEN SAY SOMETHING - CALL 9-1-1 and report suspicious activity or criminal activity in process.
Useful Neighborhood Watch Forms
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Here are some useful Neighborhood (Block) Watch Forms provided from a recent Neighborhood Watch Training seminar presented at Northland Neighborhoods by the Kansas City Police Department's Community Interaction Officers.
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Robberies When Using Local Online Sales App's
From Sarah Boyd, Public Relations Specialist, Kansas City Police Dept.
Robbers targeting users of online sales apps
Police have responded to several reports in the last few days of people who have been robbed trying to buy or sell on apps, specifically LetGo. Victims went to residential addresses to conduct the transactions.
To prevent becoming a victim, check out these tips when using apps that require buying and selling with in-person meet-ups, such as LetGo, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, etc.:
* Do NOT accept a last-second change in location under any circumstance. This is a common tactic used to lure people to potentially dangerous areas.
* Be cautious of high-value items (current phones or laptops) that have a “too good to be true” list price. Sellers may use the low price as a reason for you to have to accommodate them, and meet them in a questionable location.
* Meet at a police station or a location with a safe exchange zone. Do not jeopardize your safety for the sake of convenience. People will often meet in the far ends of large parking lots where surveillance cameras don’t reach.
* Always try to bring an extra person when buying or selling.
* Keep all communication with the buyer/seller on the app. Do not give your personal number. It is best if the conversation is linked to all accounts involved.
* Use the app to look at the profile of the buyer/seller. Does the service offer a verified status? If it’s Facebook, is it a new profile with little to no information? Craigslist works with almost total anonymity and offers the fewest safeguards.
* If possible, do not use cash. Apps such as Venmo, PayPal, and Cash have made securely transferring money possible. Carrying cash is a liability and could set you up to be a victim of a violent crime.
Robbers targeting users of online sales apps
Police have responded to several reports in the last few days of people who have been robbed trying to buy or sell on apps, specifically LetGo. Victims went to residential addresses to conduct the transactions.
To prevent becoming a victim, check out these tips when using apps that require buying and selling with in-person meet-ups, such as LetGo, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, etc.:
* Do NOT accept a last-second change in location under any circumstance. This is a common tactic used to lure people to potentially dangerous areas.
* Be cautious of high-value items (current phones or laptops) that have a “too good to be true” list price. Sellers may use the low price as a reason for you to have to accommodate them, and meet them in a questionable location.
* Meet at a police station or a location with a safe exchange zone. Do not jeopardize your safety for the sake of convenience. People will often meet in the far ends of large parking lots where surveillance cameras don’t reach.
* Always try to bring an extra person when buying or selling.
* Keep all communication with the buyer/seller on the app. Do not give your personal number. It is best if the conversation is linked to all accounts involved.
* Use the app to look at the profile of the buyer/seller. Does the service offer a verified status? If it’s Facebook, is it a new profile with little to no information? Craigslist works with almost total anonymity and offers the fewest safeguards.
* If possible, do not use cash. Apps such as Venmo, PayPal, and Cash have made securely transferring money possible. Carrying cash is a liability and could set you up to be a victim of a violent crime.
Theft From Auto - Prevention Tips
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From Rick Jones, Shoal Creel Community Integration Officer...
Good afternoon, Recently, we have seen an increase in theft from autos here in the northland. We are also aware of instances of car prowlers canvassing residential neighborhoods during overnight hours and attempting to enter unlocked vehicles. In addition, we are also experiencing an increase of stolen license plates. While it may not be common practice to check for both license plates on our vehicles, it may be a good time to incorporate this into a daily routine. It is very important to report any stolen license plates in a timely manner. In one instance, a person reported their license plate stolen and it was determined that it had been stolen within a two week period. During that time, the license plate had been put on a car that was associated with a series of crimes within the northland. I would like to take this opportunity to send our updated flyer with theft from auto and stolen auto prevention tips. I would ask that you push this information out to your communities. Stay safe! |
When To Use 3-1-1 and Not 9-1-1
From William Keeney, Community Interaction Officer, Shoal Creek Patrol Division...
311 not 911 when........
Common Code Violations
Many of the most common residential code violations in Kansas City are easily fixable with a little effort – the goal of code enforcement is not to levy fines and take people to court, but to obtain compliance and improve the quality of our neighborhoods.
If you see any of these problems around your house or properties you own, do yourself a favor and take care of them before we have to send you a warning letter!
If you wish to report a code violation, contact 311.
Nuisance Code Violations (generally allows 10 days for correction; continued violation may result in abatement by the City at your expense)
-Litter, trash, and rubbish (bagged or scattered)
-Rank weeds and grass (over 10″ in height)
-Fallen limbs or brush from greenery
-Open/inappropriate storage of items such as interior furniture outdoors
-parking in unapproved location (such as on the grass) or without proper vehicle license
-graffiti (owner of the property is responsible for cleanup)
-hazardous tree or limbs
Look up nuisance code violations by address or case number.
Property Maintenance Code Violations (generally allows 30 days for correction)
-failure to register vacant property
-peeling, cracked, or blistered paint / damaged siding / exterior surface not protected from weather (including unpainted boards used to secure broken windows)
-building not secured against unauthorized entry, such as broken or missing windows or doors on the first floor (must be secured immediately)
-broken, cracked, or missing panes on any window
-failure to obtain a permit for rental property (now managed by the Health Department)
-gutters, eaves, soffits, or fascia boards in disrepair
-fence or retaining wall in disrepair
What happens when you receive a violation letter?
When property maintenance or nuisance code violations are reported and observed at a residence, a warning letter is sent to the property owner of record, detailing the violations.
When that letter is sent, the clock starts ticking for the violations to be corrected, even if the address of record turns out to be wrong! If the dwelling is a rental, the residents are also notified of violations they are responsible for.
Any registered agents of the owner are also notified.
If you have specific questions about a case, contact the inspector listed at the bottom of your violation letter; if you have misplaced the letter, their information is available on the City’s website, as well as a summary of recent actions taken in relation to that case. If you are still unsure who the inspector is, contact the 3-1-1 Action Center who can get you their contact information.
Buildings that are open to entry (broken or missing windows or doors) must be corrected immediately; if the owner or their agent can be contacted, they will have a chance to correct the problem. But if the inspector has been unable to contact anyone after due diligence, the City will secure the building within 24 hours, at the owner’s expense.
Nuisance violations (those enumerated in Chapter 48 of the Code of Ordinances) must be corrected within ten days of the Order to Remove Nuisances letter being sent. If the owner does not live in the property, the residents will also be notified with a duplicate letter. Common nuisance violations include:
-weeds or grass over 10 inches in height;
-trash or debris stored improperly;
-vehicles parked on grass or other unsuitable surfaces;
-exterior storage of materials not suited to the outdoors, such as interior furniture;
-landlord ‘set outs’ of evicted tenant belongings on the curb;
-If the inspector finds the same violations still present after ten days, a summons for -Housing Court may be issued, or in certain circumstances an Administrative Citation will be issued to the property owner (and resident, if applicable). If weed or trash -violations exist upon re-inspection, the City may utilize a contractor to abate the problems and bill the property owner for the costs of such abatement.
Property maintenance violations (those enumerated in Chapter 56 of the Code of Ordinances) should be corrected within thirty days of the Notice and Order letter being sent. Property maintenance violations are generally the responsibility of the owner (not the renter), although the owner should inform the inspector if a property management company or agent is tasked with such maintenance.
Common property maintenance violations include:
-peeling paint or unprotected exterior surfaces;
-loose or non-functional guttering and downspouts;
-cracked or loose stonework or brickwork;
-loose or missing shingles or roofing;
-If the inspector finds the same violations still present after thirty days, a summons for Housing Court may be issued, or in certain circumstances an Administrative Citation will be issued to the property owner. If progress is being made but is not completed, the inspector may grant a request for an extension to the property owner, and re-inspect in thirty more days.
In extreme circumstances, property maintenance violations may be so severe that the building is considered dangerous and uninhabitable (as explained in Section 56-532 of the Code of Ordinances); if this happens, an Order to Repair or Demolish will be sent to the property owner, and any residents will be ordered to leave the property for their own safety. Dangerous Buildings usually have more than one of the following violations:
cracked or shifted foundations;
holes in the roof or walls, allowing the entry of weather and the elements;
leaning, buckled, or otherwise unsound structural walls;
In general Dangerous Buildings cases are handled similarly to other property maintenance cases, but the consequences of inaction on the part of the owner can include the City hiring a contractor to demolish part or all of the structure and bill the property owner for the cost of the demolition. Administrative Citations or Municipal Court Summons can also be issued to the property owner if they are not proceeding with repairs or demolition in a timely manner, before the City takes final action to demolish. Inspectors can grant extensions to property owners who are making progress on renovations or demolition, but consistent and substantial progress is essential to avoid hefty fines.
Once your service request is completed, we appreciate your feedback on the process, including 311’s customer service and the quality and timeliness of resolution to your issue. We use this data to monitor the quality of service citywide.
Information that helps 311 address your issue:
Location: Where is the problem or request located? (address, intersection, in front of X business, north/south side of street, NE/SE corner, etc.)
Description: What exactly is the issue or condition? (as much detail as you can provide)
Timeframe: How long has this issue/condition existed or when did you first notice it?
Contact information: What is your name and email address (or mailing address)? (if you would like to receive information about the resolution to your issue)
Process your 311 service request will follow:
Requests made via a phone call or at the self-service stations are routed immediately to the relevant department work group. Online cases will be routed by a 311 staff member during business hours, generally within a few hours. Requests via all other contact methods will be entered and routed within two business days.
Once your service request is entered by staff or submitted online, a unique case number is assigned that can be used to track the status of your case. You can use this number to check your case status.
If you submitted a property or nuisance code enforcement issue (i.e. high weeds), you can look up additional detail about the inspection process.
The department work group will investigate your issue and take necessary steps to address it.
If you would like to provide an update or request information on the status of your issue, you can contact the 311 and we will route your information to the department handling your issue.
If you provided an email or mailing address, you will be notified when the service request has been completed.
https://maps.kcmo.org/apps/311ServiceRequest/
311 not 911 when........
Common Code Violations
Many of the most common residential code violations in Kansas City are easily fixable with a little effort – the goal of code enforcement is not to levy fines and take people to court, but to obtain compliance and improve the quality of our neighborhoods.
If you see any of these problems around your house or properties you own, do yourself a favor and take care of them before we have to send you a warning letter!
If you wish to report a code violation, contact 311.
Nuisance Code Violations (generally allows 10 days for correction; continued violation may result in abatement by the City at your expense)
-Litter, trash, and rubbish (bagged or scattered)
-Rank weeds and grass (over 10″ in height)
-Fallen limbs or brush from greenery
-Open/inappropriate storage of items such as interior furniture outdoors
-parking in unapproved location (such as on the grass) or without proper vehicle license
-graffiti (owner of the property is responsible for cleanup)
-hazardous tree or limbs
Look up nuisance code violations by address or case number.
Property Maintenance Code Violations (generally allows 30 days for correction)
-failure to register vacant property
-peeling, cracked, or blistered paint / damaged siding / exterior surface not protected from weather (including unpainted boards used to secure broken windows)
-building not secured against unauthorized entry, such as broken or missing windows or doors on the first floor (must be secured immediately)
-broken, cracked, or missing panes on any window
-failure to obtain a permit for rental property (now managed by the Health Department)
-gutters, eaves, soffits, or fascia boards in disrepair
-fence or retaining wall in disrepair
What happens when you receive a violation letter?
When property maintenance or nuisance code violations are reported and observed at a residence, a warning letter is sent to the property owner of record, detailing the violations.
When that letter is sent, the clock starts ticking for the violations to be corrected, even if the address of record turns out to be wrong! If the dwelling is a rental, the residents are also notified of violations they are responsible for.
Any registered agents of the owner are also notified.
If you have specific questions about a case, contact the inspector listed at the bottom of your violation letter; if you have misplaced the letter, their information is available on the City’s website, as well as a summary of recent actions taken in relation to that case. If you are still unsure who the inspector is, contact the 3-1-1 Action Center who can get you their contact information.
Buildings that are open to entry (broken or missing windows or doors) must be corrected immediately; if the owner or their agent can be contacted, they will have a chance to correct the problem. But if the inspector has been unable to contact anyone after due diligence, the City will secure the building within 24 hours, at the owner’s expense.
Nuisance violations (those enumerated in Chapter 48 of the Code of Ordinances) must be corrected within ten days of the Order to Remove Nuisances letter being sent. If the owner does not live in the property, the residents will also be notified with a duplicate letter. Common nuisance violations include:
-weeds or grass over 10 inches in height;
-trash or debris stored improperly;
-vehicles parked on grass or other unsuitable surfaces;
-exterior storage of materials not suited to the outdoors, such as interior furniture;
-landlord ‘set outs’ of evicted tenant belongings on the curb;
-If the inspector finds the same violations still present after ten days, a summons for -Housing Court may be issued, or in certain circumstances an Administrative Citation will be issued to the property owner (and resident, if applicable). If weed or trash -violations exist upon re-inspection, the City may utilize a contractor to abate the problems and bill the property owner for the costs of such abatement.
Property maintenance violations (those enumerated in Chapter 56 of the Code of Ordinances) should be corrected within thirty days of the Notice and Order letter being sent. Property maintenance violations are generally the responsibility of the owner (not the renter), although the owner should inform the inspector if a property management company or agent is tasked with such maintenance.
Common property maintenance violations include:
-peeling paint or unprotected exterior surfaces;
-loose or non-functional guttering and downspouts;
-cracked or loose stonework or brickwork;
-loose or missing shingles or roofing;
-If the inspector finds the same violations still present after thirty days, a summons for Housing Court may be issued, or in certain circumstances an Administrative Citation will be issued to the property owner. If progress is being made but is not completed, the inspector may grant a request for an extension to the property owner, and re-inspect in thirty more days.
In extreme circumstances, property maintenance violations may be so severe that the building is considered dangerous and uninhabitable (as explained in Section 56-532 of the Code of Ordinances); if this happens, an Order to Repair or Demolish will be sent to the property owner, and any residents will be ordered to leave the property for their own safety. Dangerous Buildings usually have more than one of the following violations:
cracked or shifted foundations;
holes in the roof or walls, allowing the entry of weather and the elements;
leaning, buckled, or otherwise unsound structural walls;
In general Dangerous Buildings cases are handled similarly to other property maintenance cases, but the consequences of inaction on the part of the owner can include the City hiring a contractor to demolish part or all of the structure and bill the property owner for the cost of the demolition. Administrative Citations or Municipal Court Summons can also be issued to the property owner if they are not proceeding with repairs or demolition in a timely manner, before the City takes final action to demolish. Inspectors can grant extensions to property owners who are making progress on renovations or demolition, but consistent and substantial progress is essential to avoid hefty fines.
Once your service request is completed, we appreciate your feedback on the process, including 311’s customer service and the quality and timeliness of resolution to your issue. We use this data to monitor the quality of service citywide.
Information that helps 311 address your issue:
Location: Where is the problem or request located? (address, intersection, in front of X business, north/south side of street, NE/SE corner, etc.)
Description: What exactly is the issue or condition? (as much detail as you can provide)
Timeframe: How long has this issue/condition existed or when did you first notice it?
Contact information: What is your name and email address (or mailing address)? (if you would like to receive information about the resolution to your issue)
Process your 311 service request will follow:
Requests made via a phone call or at the self-service stations are routed immediately to the relevant department work group. Online cases will be routed by a 311 staff member during business hours, generally within a few hours. Requests via all other contact methods will be entered and routed within two business days.
Once your service request is entered by staff or submitted online, a unique case number is assigned that can be used to track the status of your case. You can use this number to check your case status.
If you submitted a property or nuisance code enforcement issue (i.e. high weeds), you can look up additional detail about the inspection process.
The department work group will investigate your issue and take necessary steps to address it.
If you would like to provide an update or request information on the status of your issue, you can contact the 311 and we will route your information to the department handling your issue.
If you provided an email or mailing address, you will be notified when the service request has been completed.
https://maps.kcmo.org/apps/311ServiceRequest/
A Safe Neighborhood Requires Help From Homeowners
CRIME PREVENTION STARTS WITH THE COMMUNITY - CHARLESTON HARBOR HOMEOWNERS NEED TO PARTICIPATE
From William Keeney, Community Interaction Officer, KCPD Shoal Creek Patrol...
2018, we saw a year with a Police Chief who brought back the Community Interaction Officer, two for each of his Divisions. The reason?
Chief Smith believes in Community. His vision in community Policing has opened communication with technology, Face to Face contacts and Community Led initiatives.
2018 revealed many of our community members who stepped up to help out. Community members spoke up and began watching, and most importantly reported to assist their Police Department in the solving of many crimes.
This growing relationship is vital, why?
It is Community Policing at its CORE.
KCPD Chief's Blog Monday, December 31, 2018
As security cameras proliferate, they're preventing and solving more crime in KC
As security cameras become cheaper, higher quality and more accessible, we are seeing tremendous benefits from them in both preventing and solving crime. They’ve been in the news a lot lately for their role in capturing package thieves, but they can help us solve everything from a burglary to a murder.
The partnerships we’ve formed with the community and a security camera provider have further enhanced the effectiveness of these cameras. If you have not yet registered for WatchKC, I encourage you to do so. WatchKC is a program in which residents and businesses can let us know that they have cameras. We then put those on a map that only certain detectives can see. The detectives can ask those camera owners if they caught any footage related to crime that has happened in the area. It’s a lot faster than walking door-to-door, so detectives can use their time more effectively.
We also partnered with Ring on their Neighbors by Ring App in October. This allows us to see videos and crime information Ring users share on the Neighbors app in real time. Police cannot see any identifying information about the user, just the block on which they live. As one of our crime analysts said, “That is my favorite part of the day: looking to see if anyone added video in our patrol division.”
These pictures don’t just help us – they help neighbors look out for each other. We’ve seen increased neighborhood awareness through these cameras and people sharing what they’ve recorded on social media and apps. That makes residents more aware of what’s going on around them and leads them to take preventative measures. It also makes them more willing to call us if they see something suspicious.
People caught on camera doing suspicious or criminal things at your home or business rarely commit just one crime. These videos and pictures help us link them to numerous other crimes.
So if you got a security camera for the holidays, we’d love for you to help us solve and prevent crime by registering with WatchKC or joining the Neighbors by Ring app.
http://kcmo.gov/police/watchkc/
BY THE KANSAS CITY STAR EDITORIAL BOARD REPORTS:
DECEMBER 31, 2018 05:00 AM, UPDATED DECEMBER 31, 2018 10:58 AM
Homicides, other violent crime decreased in 2018 for KC. Will that continue in 2019?
Violent crime in Kansas City dropped across the board in 2018 compared to last year. That’s encouraging. Forcible sex offenses were down nearly 4 percent between January and October compared to the same period last year. Data from November isn’t yet available.
Robberies dropped by 13 percent in the same time frame, while burglaries dropped 21 percent and kidnapping/abduction offenses decreased by 48 percent. But assaults — including non-fatal shootings — increased by 1 percent, a disappointing development.
So what’s driving the nearly 5 percent decrease in homicides? Could it be more police presence, broader community interaction, or more direct engagement with neighbors who’ve had enough, as police officials suggested? Or did we simply catch a break?
The downward trajectory can’t be attributed to one single strategy. Weekly crime meetings that include Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith and division commanders have helped. Forward-thinking public policy has played a role. Kansas City police have engaged more with the public and have doubled the number of community officers the department deploys. The monetary reward for information about crimes has increased from $2,000 to $10,000.
“We’ve seen great results,” Smith said.
The community-first approach isn’t uniquely innovative, but any reduction in the murder rate should be noted and examined. People-focused crime prevention strategies work, as Smith can attest.
“We know our bad guys much better because we know more good people,” he said.
The department’s goals for next year are attainable. The focus in 2019 will remain reducing bullet-to-skin aggravated assaults, homicides and illegal use of weapons within city limits.
“I think we are making strides,” Smith said.
The causes of violent crime have been explored on these pages. Poverty, joblessness and lack of educational opportunities breed crime and violence.
Coordinated efforts that have proved effective this year in Northeast Kansas City could be expanded in hopes of putting a more significant dent in next year’s citywide totals. Homicides in the area dipped from 11 in 2017 to zero this year as of Friday. Aggravated assaults and robberies also decreased. Violent crime dropped a whopping 44 percent in Northeast Kansas City.
Police should replicate those strategies in other parts of the city.
It takes a community to make our city safer. Local leaders must continue to focus on crime prevention efforts in 2019 if Kansas City hopes to shed its deserved violent reputation.
From William Keeney, Community Interaction Officer, KCPD Shoal Creek Patrol...
2018, we saw a year with a Police Chief who brought back the Community Interaction Officer, two for each of his Divisions. The reason?
Chief Smith believes in Community. His vision in community Policing has opened communication with technology, Face to Face contacts and Community Led initiatives.
2018 revealed many of our community members who stepped up to help out. Community members spoke up and began watching, and most importantly reported to assist their Police Department in the solving of many crimes.
This growing relationship is vital, why?
It is Community Policing at its CORE.
KCPD Chief's Blog Monday, December 31, 2018
As security cameras proliferate, they're preventing and solving more crime in KC
As security cameras become cheaper, higher quality and more accessible, we are seeing tremendous benefits from them in both preventing and solving crime. They’ve been in the news a lot lately for their role in capturing package thieves, but they can help us solve everything from a burglary to a murder.
The partnerships we’ve formed with the community and a security camera provider have further enhanced the effectiveness of these cameras. If you have not yet registered for WatchKC, I encourage you to do so. WatchKC is a program in which residents and businesses can let us know that they have cameras. We then put those on a map that only certain detectives can see. The detectives can ask those camera owners if they caught any footage related to crime that has happened in the area. It’s a lot faster than walking door-to-door, so detectives can use their time more effectively.
We also partnered with Ring on their Neighbors by Ring App in October. This allows us to see videos and crime information Ring users share on the Neighbors app in real time. Police cannot see any identifying information about the user, just the block on which they live. As one of our crime analysts said, “That is my favorite part of the day: looking to see if anyone added video in our patrol division.”
These pictures don’t just help us – they help neighbors look out for each other. We’ve seen increased neighborhood awareness through these cameras and people sharing what they’ve recorded on social media and apps. That makes residents more aware of what’s going on around them and leads them to take preventative measures. It also makes them more willing to call us if they see something suspicious.
People caught on camera doing suspicious or criminal things at your home or business rarely commit just one crime. These videos and pictures help us link them to numerous other crimes.
So if you got a security camera for the holidays, we’d love for you to help us solve and prevent crime by registering with WatchKC or joining the Neighbors by Ring app.
http://kcmo.gov/police/watchkc/
BY THE KANSAS CITY STAR EDITORIAL BOARD REPORTS:
DECEMBER 31, 2018 05:00 AM, UPDATED DECEMBER 31, 2018 10:58 AM
Homicides, other violent crime decreased in 2018 for KC. Will that continue in 2019?
Violent crime in Kansas City dropped across the board in 2018 compared to last year. That’s encouraging. Forcible sex offenses were down nearly 4 percent between January and October compared to the same period last year. Data from November isn’t yet available.
Robberies dropped by 13 percent in the same time frame, while burglaries dropped 21 percent and kidnapping/abduction offenses decreased by 48 percent. But assaults — including non-fatal shootings — increased by 1 percent, a disappointing development.
So what’s driving the nearly 5 percent decrease in homicides? Could it be more police presence, broader community interaction, or more direct engagement with neighbors who’ve had enough, as police officials suggested? Or did we simply catch a break?
The downward trajectory can’t be attributed to one single strategy. Weekly crime meetings that include Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith and division commanders have helped. Forward-thinking public policy has played a role. Kansas City police have engaged more with the public and have doubled the number of community officers the department deploys. The monetary reward for information about crimes has increased from $2,000 to $10,000.
“We’ve seen great results,” Smith said.
The community-first approach isn’t uniquely innovative, but any reduction in the murder rate should be noted and examined. People-focused crime prevention strategies work, as Smith can attest.
“We know our bad guys much better because we know more good people,” he said.
The department’s goals for next year are attainable. The focus in 2019 will remain reducing bullet-to-skin aggravated assaults, homicides and illegal use of weapons within city limits.
“I think we are making strides,” Smith said.
The causes of violent crime have been explored on these pages. Poverty, joblessness and lack of educational opportunities breed crime and violence.
Coordinated efforts that have proved effective this year in Northeast Kansas City could be expanded in hopes of putting a more significant dent in next year’s citywide totals. Homicides in the area dipped from 11 in 2017 to zero this year as of Friday. Aggravated assaults and robberies also decreased. Violent crime dropped a whopping 44 percent in Northeast Kansas City.
Police should replicate those strategies in other parts of the city.
It takes a community to make our city safer. Local leaders must continue to focus on crime prevention efforts in 2019 if Kansas City hopes to shed its deserved violent reputation.
THEFT FROM AUTO
Just a reminder to our residents, please remove all valuables and garage door openers from your vehicles if you are leaving them in your driveway or parked on the street. Please make sure that your vehicles are locked at all times. The Shoal Creek Patrol Division indicates that they are seeing a large number of theft from autos in the area.
A THEFT FROM AUTO HAPPENED ON 12-12-2018 IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD (THE 6900 BLOCK OF N. HARDESTY AVE.) IT WAS REPORTED TO THE KCMO POLICE DEPT.
REPORT # 180096635
A THEFT FROM AUTO HAPPENED ON 12-12-2018 IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD (THE 6900 BLOCK OF N. HARDESTY AVE.) IT WAS REPORTED TO THE KCMO POLICE DEPT.
REPORT # 180096635
Don't Get Robbed Buying, Selling Or Dating Online
From Sarah Boyd, Public Relations Specialist, Kansas City Police Dept.
Don't Get Robbed Buying, Selling or Dating OnlineAs the holidays approach, KCPD's Robbery Unit would like to offer safety tips for arranging to buy or sell goods in person, as well as online dating. We've just seen too many victims.
With the growing popularity of bartering mediums (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Letgo & OfferUp App etc.) and online dating (Tinder, PlentyOfFish, Bumble, etc.), criminals have begun to use these platforms as a way to commit crimes, such as robberies. These platforms offer predators a unique way to lure people into vulnerable situations.
To optimize your safety, we would like to offer the following safeguards when meeting with unfamiliar people. (If they want to sell you an iPhone 10 for $250, it's a set-up!):
BUYING AND SELLING
• Do not accept a last-second change in location under any circumstance. Be aware, this is a common tactic used to lure people to potentially dangerous areas.
• Be cautious of high-value items (current phones or laptops) that have a “too good to be true” list price. Oftentimes a seller may use the low price as a reason for you to have to accommodate them, and meet them in a questionable location.
• Meet at a police station or a location with a safe exchange zone. Do not jeopardize your safety for the sake of convenience. People will often meet in the far ends of large parking lots where it is not adequately covered by surveillance from the building.
• Always try to bring an extra person when buying or selling.
• Keep all communication with the buyer/seller on the app. Do not give your personal number. It is best if the conversation is linked to all accounts involved.
• Take a moment to use the app to look at the profile of the buyer/seller. Does the service offer a verified status? If it’s Facebook, is it a new profile with little to no information? Craigslist works with almost total anonymity and that should always be taken into account.
• If possible, do not use cash. Apps such as Venmo, PayPal, and Cash have made securely transferring money possible. Carrying cash is a liability and could set you up to be a victim of a violent crime.
ONLINE DATING
• Meet at a safe and populated location when meeting up with unfamiliar people. Regardless of the amount of time you have communicated with the other person, you should always keep safety at the forefront of your mind. Do not meet them at their personal residence, nor meet at a park.
• Drive yourself to any location, and do not give anyone you do not know a ride. A common practice used to rob people is to have others “come pick them up” at a residential location, only for the victim to be robbed once they arrive. Until you have established a reasonable relationship with the individual, you should take steps to stay safe.
• Do not accept a drink unless you can verify it does not contain an unwanted substance.
Shareable flier is attached.
Don't Get Robbed Buying, Selling or Dating OnlineAs the holidays approach, KCPD's Robbery Unit would like to offer safety tips for arranging to buy or sell goods in person, as well as online dating. We've just seen too many victims.
With the growing popularity of bartering mediums (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Letgo & OfferUp App etc.) and online dating (Tinder, PlentyOfFish, Bumble, etc.), criminals have begun to use these platforms as a way to commit crimes, such as robberies. These platforms offer predators a unique way to lure people into vulnerable situations.
To optimize your safety, we would like to offer the following safeguards when meeting with unfamiliar people. (If they want to sell you an iPhone 10 for $250, it's a set-up!):
BUYING AND SELLING
• Do not accept a last-second change in location under any circumstance. Be aware, this is a common tactic used to lure people to potentially dangerous areas.
• Be cautious of high-value items (current phones or laptops) that have a “too good to be true” list price. Oftentimes a seller may use the low price as a reason for you to have to accommodate them, and meet them in a questionable location.
• Meet at a police station or a location with a safe exchange zone. Do not jeopardize your safety for the sake of convenience. People will often meet in the far ends of large parking lots where it is not adequately covered by surveillance from the building.
• Always try to bring an extra person when buying or selling.
• Keep all communication with the buyer/seller on the app. Do not give your personal number. It is best if the conversation is linked to all accounts involved.
• Take a moment to use the app to look at the profile of the buyer/seller. Does the service offer a verified status? If it’s Facebook, is it a new profile with little to no information? Craigslist works with almost total anonymity and that should always be taken into account.
• If possible, do not use cash. Apps such as Venmo, PayPal, and Cash have made securely transferring money possible. Carrying cash is a liability and could set you up to be a victim of a violent crime.
ONLINE DATING
• Meet at a safe and populated location when meeting up with unfamiliar people. Regardless of the amount of time you have communicated with the other person, you should always keep safety at the forefront of your mind. Do not meet them at their personal residence, nor meet at a park.
• Drive yourself to any location, and do not give anyone you do not know a ride. A common practice used to rob people is to have others “come pick them up” at a residential location, only for the victim to be robbed once they arrive. Until you have established a reasonable relationship with the individual, you should take steps to stay safe.
• Do not accept a drink unless you can verify it does not contain an unwanted substance.
Shareable flier is attached.
Tis The Season - Watch Out For Porch Pirates
From Community Interaction Officer William Keeney, Shoal Creek Patrol Division...
‘Tis The Season.......Porch Pirates Are Out Trolling
Online purchases are on the rise as well as the Porch Pirates....
Here are five steps to help safeguard your goods:
1.) Network with Neighbors. Your neighbors can be extremely helpful when it comes to preventing package theft while you're away. ...
2.) Have Packages Delivered to Work. ...
3.) Leave Specific Drop-off Instructions. ...
4.) Use a Smart Lock. ...
5.) Install Security Cameras. ...
Along with the Porch Pirates, the Cat Burglars are on the Prowl!! They go through our neighborhoods at night looking into unlocked vehicles and open garages.
This past week our overnight Officers while on Patrol discovered 6 open garage doors and 10 vehicles with valuables inside and unlocked. They contacted the owners and left prevention flyers.
Let’s stay alert and not become victims.......
‘Tis The Season.......Porch Pirates Are Out Trolling
Online purchases are on the rise as well as the Porch Pirates....
Here are five steps to help safeguard your goods:
1.) Network with Neighbors. Your neighbors can be extremely helpful when it comes to preventing package theft while you're away. ...
2.) Have Packages Delivered to Work. ...
3.) Leave Specific Drop-off Instructions. ...
4.) Use a Smart Lock. ...
5.) Install Security Cameras. ...
Along with the Porch Pirates, the Cat Burglars are on the Prowl!! They go through our neighborhoods at night looking into unlocked vehicles and open garages.
This past week our overnight Officers while on Patrol discovered 6 open garage doors and 10 vehicles with valuables inside and unlocked. They contacted the owners and left prevention flyers.
Let’s stay alert and not become victims.......
Winter's Coming - Prepare For Driving In The Snow
Let it snow.....Let it snow.....OHHH NO!!!!Its winter in Kansas City and it is hard to predict. We can get nothing or a Blizzard and everything in between. One thing that can be predicted.....Many Accidents....and stranded motorist......
Here are some winter driving tips:
- Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks.
- Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
- Make certain your tires are properly inflated. - Never mix radial tires with other tire types.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.
- If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.
- Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).
- Always look and steer where you want to go.
- Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.
Tips for long-distance winter trips:
- Watch weather reports prior to a long-distance drive or before driving in isolated areas.
- Delay trips when especially bad weather is expected. If you must leave, let others know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival.
- Always make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition by having it inspected by a Certified Auto Repair facility.
- Keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle at all times.
- Pack a cellular telephone with your local AAA’s telephone number, plus blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication in your vehicle.
- If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. - Don’t try to walk in a severe storm. It’s easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost.
- Don’t over exert yourself if you try to push or dig your vehicle out of the snow.
- At night, keep the dome light on if possible. It only uses a small amount of electricity and will make it easier for rescuers to find you.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.
- Use whatever is available to insulate your body from the cold. This could include floor mats, newspapers or paper maps.
- If possible run the engine and heater just long enough to remove the chill and to conserve gasoline.
Tips for driving in the snow:
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids.
- Don’t try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
- Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads.
- Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement.
- Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
- The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.
- Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, the best way to stop is threshold breaking. Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
- Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling.
- If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
- Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning.
- Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down hill as slowly as possible.
- Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road.
- Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
Stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.
Here are some winter driving tips:
- Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks.
- Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
- Make certain your tires are properly inflated. - Never mix radial tires with other tire types.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.
- If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.
- Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).
- Always look and steer where you want to go.
- Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.
Tips for long-distance winter trips:
- Watch weather reports prior to a long-distance drive or before driving in isolated areas.
- Delay trips when especially bad weather is expected. If you must leave, let others know your route, destination and estimated time of arrival.
- Always make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition by having it inspected by a Certified Auto Repair facility.
- Keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle at all times.
- Pack a cellular telephone with your local AAA’s telephone number, plus blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication in your vehicle.
- If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. - Don’t try to walk in a severe storm. It’s easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost.
- Don’t over exert yourself if you try to push or dig your vehicle out of the snow.
- At night, keep the dome light on if possible. It only uses a small amount of electricity and will make it easier for rescuers to find you.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.
- Use whatever is available to insulate your body from the cold. This could include floor mats, newspapers or paper maps.
- If possible run the engine and heater just long enough to remove the chill and to conserve gasoline.
Tips for driving in the snow:
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids.
- Don’t try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
- Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads.
- Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement.
- Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
- The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.
- Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, the best way to stop is threshold breaking. Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
- Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling.
- If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
- Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning.
- Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down hill as slowly as possible.
- Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road.
- Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
Stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.
Beware Of The Online Christmas Bandits
From Community Interaction Officer William Keeney, Kansas City Police Department
With the gift giving season upon us, many people will be doing their holiday shopping online, in fact, Americans will spend an estimated $61 billion shipping online this holiday season. Here are a few tips to help keep you safe while shopping online:
1. Skip the Debit Card
It is best to use a credit card or a preload card. Debit cards are a direct link to your bank account and have a much higher risk of being hacked. Credit cards offer more protection and less liability if a card number is stolen. A prepaid card will be denied when the amount on the card equals $.00 or less than the amount being credited to the account.
2. Shop Secure Sites Only
The easiest way to tell if a site is secure, is to look for “https” at the beginning of a site’s address. If you don’t see the “s” at the end of “http,” then the site is not encrypted and your data will not be secure. All legitimate shopping sites will have the “s” for your protection.
3. Update Your Software
Updating your software on your device is one of the easiest things you can do to help protect your information. Don’t put it off. Update your device each month to the latest software releases.
4. Outsmart Email Scams
The holidays are a great time for email scammers to send out viruses and malware in the guise of a gift or special offer. Don’t open emails from someone you don’t know or a site you haven’t visited. Another way the bad guys try to get you is with phony messages from your bank or other financial institution saying there is an alert or problem with your account. Always call the bank directly to verify any potential problems and never enter your account, passwords or any other information in response to an email.
5. Just Say No to Clicking Links
Beware of links that make offers too good to be true on social networking sites. If you are tempted by an offer, do your research first.
6. Beef Up Your Passwords
If this piece of advice sounds like a broken record, there is a reason for it. It is really important that you have very strong passwords to your accounts. Password managers and generators can really help with this.
Below is a list of password managers. Many also have password generators.
Lastpass https://www.lastpass.com/
Dashlane https://www.dashlane.com/
RoboForm https://www.roboform.com
KeePass https://keepass.info/
Sticky Password https://www.stickypassword.com/
1password https://1password.com/
****These are only suggestions. ******* KCPD does not endorse any specific site.
You should do your own research before picking a protection password app.
7. Never Give More Info Than Needed
Many websites will ask you for information to complete your purchase or start a wish list. Only give them information they require. The more information you put out there the more accessible you are to a bad guy.
8. Don’t Go Public
Free hotspots are great when you are out and about, but remember bad guys like them even more than you do. Any information you enter on a public network is fair game for a hacker. Don’t log into your banking site or payment sites on a public network and make sure you logout of such sites on mobile devices before connecting to a public network.
9. Be Smart about Shopping Apps
Apps make everything more convenient, including stealing your private information. Only download shopping apps from a reliable source like the Apple App Store or Android Market. Pay attention to permissions apps ask for. Check out comments and reviews of the app before downloading is another way to help avoid trouble.
10. Put It on Lockdown
Make sure every device that you shop from has security software in place. Always use a passcode to access your tablet or smartphone, and log off your computer or lock the screen when you walk away from it. After accessing a shopping or banking site, be sure to completely log out of the site before exiting, and don’t let your computer or device remember your usernames, passwords, or credit card information.
One last thing, remember to check your credit and consider putting a freeze on your credit if you are not considering purchasing a new car or home in the near future. Credit can always be unfrozen when you need to apply for a loan. Freezing credit will help prevent someone from opening open credit accounts.
Have fun and be safe shopping!
Prevent Those Car Prowlers
From William Keeney, Community Information Officer, Shoal Creek Patrol Station...
PREVENT THOSE CAR PROWLERS...
Officers are still finding vehicles that are potential theft targets.Stealing from Autos are still our #1 crime......here are some tips....
LOCK YOUR DOORS
While this piece of advice should be a no-brainer, up to a quarter of vehicle thefts are from unlocked cars. Even if you're running into the store for a Coke, that's too long to leave your vehicle's contents open for the taking. Simply locking the doors will deter those who might just be waiting around for an easy target.
KEEP IT TIDY
Almost any worthless personal item that's visible from the outside -- even an empty shopping bag -- could be seen as a valuable or a carrier of valuables. If you have a wagon or SUV that leaves your cargo area on display, consider getting a cover. Most of these vehicles can be fitted with inexpensive retractable covers to help keep shopping bags or other belongings out of sight.
CONCEAL ALL THE EVIDENCE
Don't leave any bait out for thieves; stow your electronics and accessories well out of sight-or better yet, bring it with you. The evidence alone might be enough to pique the interest of thieves, so hide that too, including power plugs, telltale iPod adapters, or nav-system windshield suction-cup mounts, and even put the cigarette lighter back in place.
STASH BEFORE, NOT AFTER YOU PARK
Get in the habit of putting shopping bags in the trunk right when you return to the vehicle, rather than after you park at the next place. Thieves sometimes linger in busy parking lots looking for valuables being moved out of sight. Don't display to them what you have.
COMPLETELY CLOSE ALL WINDOWS & SUNROOFS
No, it's not just because thieves might reach in through the gap and open your locks with a coat hanger. Open windows will disable the pressure sensor in some car alarms, leaving the vehicle more vulnerable to break-in and potentially giving thieves more time before the alarm sounds.
GET AN ALARM
If you don't have an alarm system, get one. The noise alone may be enough to scare away an inexperienced thief and prevent the break-in. Factory-option alarm systems are generally best, but a carefully installed, properly calibrated aftermarket system can provide just as much safety. Beware, many less-expensive new cars have remote entry but not a true alarm.
STICK WITH THE ORIGINAL ALARM SYSTEM
Thefts of car audio components are on the decline, but having an aftermarket system still makes a car more attractive to thieves thinking of breaking in. There's no black market to speak of for factory stereos, and they've become much better sounding in recent years.
PARK FOR VISIBILITY
Park in a busy, well-lit area, and avoid concealment from larger vehicles, fences, or foliage. Except for the most brazen thieves, the greater the chances are that someone might see a crime in progress, the lower the chances are that the potential thief will attempt it.
GET PHYSICAL
A significant portion of vehicles are broken into with the intent of stealing the vehicle itself, so combining several visible simple, inexpensive physical theft deterrents like steering wheel locks (The Club), steering column collars, or brake pedal locks may discourage the would-be thief from breaking in and trying.
LAYER YOUR DEFENSES
Layering include warning devices such as alarms, wheel etching, or decals; immobilizers; and even tracking systems (LoJack is one).
PREVENT THOSE CAR PROWLERS...
Officers are still finding vehicles that are potential theft targets.Stealing from Autos are still our #1 crime......here are some tips....
LOCK YOUR DOORS
While this piece of advice should be a no-brainer, up to a quarter of vehicle thefts are from unlocked cars. Even if you're running into the store for a Coke, that's too long to leave your vehicle's contents open for the taking. Simply locking the doors will deter those who might just be waiting around for an easy target.
KEEP IT TIDY
Almost any worthless personal item that's visible from the outside -- even an empty shopping bag -- could be seen as a valuable or a carrier of valuables. If you have a wagon or SUV that leaves your cargo area on display, consider getting a cover. Most of these vehicles can be fitted with inexpensive retractable covers to help keep shopping bags or other belongings out of sight.
CONCEAL ALL THE EVIDENCE
Don't leave any bait out for thieves; stow your electronics and accessories well out of sight-or better yet, bring it with you. The evidence alone might be enough to pique the interest of thieves, so hide that too, including power plugs, telltale iPod adapters, or nav-system windshield suction-cup mounts, and even put the cigarette lighter back in place.
STASH BEFORE, NOT AFTER YOU PARK
Get in the habit of putting shopping bags in the trunk right when you return to the vehicle, rather than after you park at the next place. Thieves sometimes linger in busy parking lots looking for valuables being moved out of sight. Don't display to them what you have.
COMPLETELY CLOSE ALL WINDOWS & SUNROOFS
No, it's not just because thieves might reach in through the gap and open your locks with a coat hanger. Open windows will disable the pressure sensor in some car alarms, leaving the vehicle more vulnerable to break-in and potentially giving thieves more time before the alarm sounds.
GET AN ALARM
If you don't have an alarm system, get one. The noise alone may be enough to scare away an inexperienced thief and prevent the break-in. Factory-option alarm systems are generally best, but a carefully installed, properly calibrated aftermarket system can provide just as much safety. Beware, many less-expensive new cars have remote entry but not a true alarm.
STICK WITH THE ORIGINAL ALARM SYSTEM
Thefts of car audio components are on the decline, but having an aftermarket system still makes a car more attractive to thieves thinking of breaking in. There's no black market to speak of for factory stereos, and they've become much better sounding in recent years.
PARK FOR VISIBILITY
Park in a busy, well-lit area, and avoid concealment from larger vehicles, fences, or foliage. Except for the most brazen thieves, the greater the chances are that someone might see a crime in progress, the lower the chances are that the potential thief will attempt it.
GET PHYSICAL
A significant portion of vehicles are broken into with the intent of stealing the vehicle itself, so combining several visible simple, inexpensive physical theft deterrents like steering wheel locks (The Club), steering column collars, or brake pedal locks may discourage the would-be thief from breaking in and trying.
LAYER YOUR DEFENSES
Layering include warning devices such as alarms, wheel etching, or decals; immobilizers; and even tracking systems (LoJack is one).
Auto Theft Reported in Charleston Harbor - Oct. 17, 2018
A resident in the 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave. reported to KCPD that the daughter's vehicle was stolen while parked curbside. The theft occurred sometime between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. A police report was completed and the police are investigating.
Burglaries...How Secure Is Your Home?
Home Security Checklist............. Use this as a guide as you check your home for safety measures. These are just some of the steps you can take to decrease the likelihood that you or your home is targeted.
Exterior Doors
All doors are locked at night and every time we leave the house-even if it's just for a few minutes.
Doors are solid hardwood or metal.
Doors feature wide-angle peepholes at heights everyone can use.
If there are glass panels in or near our doors, they are reinforced in some way so that they cannot be shattered.
All entryways have a working, keyed entry lock and sturdy deadbolt lock installed into the frame of the door.
Spare keys are kept with a trusted neighbor, not under a doormat or planter, on a ledge, or in the mailbox.
Garage and Sliding Door Security
The door leading from the attached garage to the house is solid wood or metal-clad and protected with a quality keyed door lock and deadbolt.
The overhead garage door has a lock so that we do not rely solely on the automatic door opener to provide security.
Garage doors are all locked when leaving the house and when not in use.
The sliding glass door has a strong, working key locks.
A dowel or a pin to secure a glass door has been installed to prevent the door from being shoved aside or lifted off the track.
The sliding door is locked every night and each time we leave the house.
Protecting Windows
Every window in the house has a working key lock or is securely pinned.
Windows are always locked, even when they are opened a few inches for ventilation.
Outdoor Security
Shrubs and bushes are trimmed so there is no place for someone to hide.
There are no dark areas around our house, garage, or yard at night that would hide prowlers.
Every outside door has a bright, working light to illuminate visitors.
Floodlights are used appropriately to ensure effective illumination.
Outdoor lights are on in the evening-whether someone is at home or not or a photocell or motion-sensitive lighting system has been installed.
Our house number is clearly displayed so police and other emergency vehicles can find the house quickly.
Security When Away From Home
At least two light timers have been set to turn the lights on and off in a logical sequence, when we are away from home for an extended time period.
The motion detector or other alarm system (if we have one) has been activated when we leave home.
Mail and newspaper deliveries have been stopped or arrangements for a neighbor/ friend to pick them up have been made when we go away from home for a period of time.
A neighbor has been asked to tend the yard and watch our home when we are away.
Outdoor Valuables and Personal Property
Gate latches, garage doors, and shed doors are all locked with high-security, laminated padlocks.
Gate latches, garage doors, and shed doors are locked after every use.
Grill s, lawn mowers, and other valuables are stored in a locked garage or shed, or if left out in the open, are hidden from view with a tarp and securely locked to a stationary point.
Every bicycle is secured with a U-bar lock or quality padlock and chain.
Bikes are always locked, even if we leave them for just a minute.
Firearms are stored unloaded and locked in storage boxes and secured with trigger guard locks.
Valuable items, such as television, stereos, and computers have been inscribed with identifying number approved by local police.
Our home inventory is up-to-date and includes pictures. A complete copy is kept somewhere out of the house.
If you have any questions feel free and contact your KCPD Community Interaction Officer.
You can make an appointment for one to come out and do a Security Survey....... Free of Charge..... Prevention is Community Policing
Exterior Doors
All doors are locked at night and every time we leave the house-even if it's just for a few minutes.
Doors are solid hardwood or metal.
Doors feature wide-angle peepholes at heights everyone can use.
If there are glass panels in or near our doors, they are reinforced in some way so that they cannot be shattered.
All entryways have a working, keyed entry lock and sturdy deadbolt lock installed into the frame of the door.
Spare keys are kept with a trusted neighbor, not under a doormat or planter, on a ledge, or in the mailbox.
Garage and Sliding Door Security
The door leading from the attached garage to the house is solid wood or metal-clad and protected with a quality keyed door lock and deadbolt.
The overhead garage door has a lock so that we do not rely solely on the automatic door opener to provide security.
Garage doors are all locked when leaving the house and when not in use.
The sliding glass door has a strong, working key locks.
A dowel or a pin to secure a glass door has been installed to prevent the door from being shoved aside or lifted off the track.
The sliding door is locked every night and each time we leave the house.
Protecting Windows
Every window in the house has a working key lock or is securely pinned.
Windows are always locked, even when they are opened a few inches for ventilation.
Outdoor Security
Shrubs and bushes are trimmed so there is no place for someone to hide.
There are no dark areas around our house, garage, or yard at night that would hide prowlers.
Every outside door has a bright, working light to illuminate visitors.
Floodlights are used appropriately to ensure effective illumination.
Outdoor lights are on in the evening-whether someone is at home or not or a photocell or motion-sensitive lighting system has been installed.
Our house number is clearly displayed so police and other emergency vehicles can find the house quickly.
Security When Away From Home
At least two light timers have been set to turn the lights on and off in a logical sequence, when we are away from home for an extended time period.
The motion detector or other alarm system (if we have one) has been activated when we leave home.
Mail and newspaper deliveries have been stopped or arrangements for a neighbor/ friend to pick them up have been made when we go away from home for a period of time.
A neighbor has been asked to tend the yard and watch our home when we are away.
Outdoor Valuables and Personal Property
Gate latches, garage doors, and shed doors are all locked with high-security, laminated padlocks.
Gate latches, garage doors, and shed doors are locked after every use.
Grill s, lawn mowers, and other valuables are stored in a locked garage or shed, or if left out in the open, are hidden from view with a tarp and securely locked to a stationary point.
Every bicycle is secured with a U-bar lock or quality padlock and chain.
Bikes are always locked, even if we leave them for just a minute.
Firearms are stored unloaded and locked in storage boxes and secured with trigger guard locks.
Valuable items, such as television, stereos, and computers have been inscribed with identifying number approved by local police.
Our home inventory is up-to-date and includes pictures. A complete copy is kept somewhere out of the house.
If you have any questions feel free and contact your KCPD Community Interaction Officer.
You can make an appointment for one to come out and do a Security Survey....... Free of Charge..... Prevention is Community Policing
Keep Your Garage Doors Shut And Automobiles Locked
The last two months we have had an increase in Northland Burglaries and theft from autos. We are tracking several leads but need the community to be vigilant. We have seen points of entry through open garage doors, or unlocked vehicles with garagedoor openers inside them. Here are additional tips:
Install a Security Camera, either a doorbell ringer camera or system. Then register it with Watch KC : ( http://kcmo.gov/police/watchkc/ )
Protecting Your Home From the Outside
Walk around the exterior of your home and scout out its weaknesses. The best way to protect your home from the outside is to survey it with the eyes of a burglar. If you can easily tell that a window could be pried open, a thief will definitely be able to come to the same conclusion. You can even contact your local police department and they’ll provide a courtesy home assessment that can help you identify your home’s weak spots.
While you’re checking for vulnerable spots, take note of any expensive electronics, art, or furniture that is easily spotted through windows. You don’t have to redecorate your entire home to keep expensive items out of sight, but it doesn’t hurt to make small adjustments where you can. No need to tempt thieves any more than you have to!
Keep shrubbery around entrances and walkways trimmed. The last thing you want is to make it easier for a thief to hide when attempting to break in, so eliminate his options for hiding spots. He may only need a few minutes of cover to make his entry but with no place to hide while doing it, he’s less likely to even try. You could even plant thorny shrubs by your windows to make it not only difficult to break in, but painful!
Build a fence. If you don’t have one already, a fence can be an excellent way to keep unwanted visitors off your property. Open chain-link or ornamental metal fencing tend to be preferable and are ideally secured into concrete to prevent lifting. Solid fences can be easier to climb and offer thieves a place to hide, though some homeowners prefer them for privacy and noise reduction. You can better secure them by having sharp pointed tops or, if you don’t mind rough barbed wire fencing.
Stow expensive items like grills, cars, and bikes in the garage. Though it may seem like a hassle to roll out the grill for every barbecue, leaving it out makes it an easy target for thieves. They don’t even have to enter your home to grab it, and if it’s got wheels it can be a breeze to sneak away with. If your area only offers street parking, always lock your car and be sure to park in a well-lit area.
Use curtains on garage and basement windows. Chances are these areas don’t need the sunlight, so put up curtains or blinds for privacy and protection. Stowing your outdoor valuables only does so much good if they’re constantly on display!
Install motion sensor lighting around your home, especially at entrances. Shine a spotlight on a potential intruder before he can even touch your doors or windows by adding extra lighting with motion detectors at entrances and especially dark corners of your home. If you live in an apartment, ask your landlord to install sufficient lighting in walkways and halls to eliminate dark corners.
Get to know your neighbors. Crime tends to be lower in tight-knit communities because neighbors are more likely to look out for each other and can easily spot a stranger. Your neighbors can be one of your best assets in home crime prevention because they offer extra eyes and an outside perspective. Plus if they have a different work or school schedule from yours, they might be around during the day when you’re away and can alert you to any suspicious activity that may occur in your absence.
Keep your yard free of toys, tools, and ladders. A yard littered with toys signals to a thief that the house may be filled with equally interesting entertainment, like game consoles, tablets, or laptops. A ladder or toolbox left out even briefly for an afternoon can give an opportunistic thief help in gaining access to your house.
Talk to your neighborhood association about increased lighting on your street. Burglars often case an entire street or neighborhood to determine if it’s a good target, but often prefer to do so in the dark of night. A well-lit neighborhood will likely deter him from your area, or at the very least make it very difficult for him to slip away undetected.
Prune trees around two-story homes. A determined crook may scale a tree and break into an upstairs window if branches are long enough to give him access. If you have a second floor, trim back tree branches to prevent a cat burglar from making his move.
Consider forming a neighborhood watch program. This will give you the opportunity to get to know your neighbors better. and create an invaluable awareness and commitment to crime prevention in your area. You can speak to your local police department about giving your group an informal lecture that can provide insight into identifying a suspicious person and what to do if you spot one loitering on your street, how to recognize a burglary in progress, how to recognize an auto theft in progress, and what to do in an emergency. Local PD will also usually distribute free literature on home safety and sometimes even offer window stickers and ID cards identifying your neighborhood organization.
Work with your neighbors to clean up the neighborhood if needed. A run-down, graffiti-lined, littered street can send the message to criminals that the residents of your area don’t care about the neighborhood or each other. That makes a prime location for theft. You can contact your local public works department to assist in the clean-up. It can be an excellent chance to bond with your neighbors, not to mention make your area a more beautiful place to live.
Keep fences, gates, and garage doors locked. It’s worth investing in a quality padlock for each outside entrance, even if you only lock it at night. However, since most friends and family won’t mind calling ahead to let you know they’re visiting, it’s best to leave them locked at all times. Never leave your garage door open if you aren’t in it or outside and able to keep an eye on it.
Install large, reflective numbers on your house and mailbox. This makes it easier for police to identify your home in the event of an emergency. Burglars prefer dark houses difficult to identify by address as it can buy them crucial spare moments in the event they’re caught in the act.
Secure your car. If you must park on the street, do so in a well-lit area and bring valuables like cell phones, purses, GPS devices, and satellite radios inside. Never leave anything of value in plain view, and always lock the doors and roll up windows. Break-ins can occur in even the safest neighborhoods, and an unlocked car is one of the easiest possible targets. Never leave a spare key in the visor or anywhere else inside, even if the car is locked.
Protecting Your Home from the Inside
Keep all doors and windows closed and locked at all times. An open exterior window or door is an invitation for burglars to easily enter your home, so keep them shut and securely locked whether you’re home or not. Don’t underestimate strong window locks, and update them if needed. Thieves know how to spot weak locks that would be easily forced open. Make sure exterior doors have deadbolt locks. Sliding doors should have vertical bolts and a metal or wooden rod in the track to prevent being forced open or doors being lifted off the track. Never leave your home without locking the front door, no matter how brief your trip. Even if it’s pouring rain, don’t forget to take the extra moment to lock up. Burglars don’t take days off due to weather!
And don’t forget the door attached to the garage. It’s one of the easiest targets and a likely route of entry. Don’t depend on your automatic garage door for full security.
Change the locks when moving into a new place. If you’re a renter, ask the landlord to change them if it wasn’t already done. Even if an old tenant returned all the keys originally issued, there’s no way to know for sure if there were ever other copies made and distributed. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to a stranger being able to walk into your locked home.
Secure valuables in a home safe or lockbox. If it is small and not mounted, consider having your safe bolted to the floor since many burglars will simply take it with them Give your pass code or combination only to a trusted loved one in case of emergency. Don’t leave it posted anywhere in your house easily accessible to an intruder.
Don’t label your personal keys or or hide spares outside. If your keys are labeled and get lost or stolen you could be in big trouble, especially if your wallet with your ID and address are with them. And thieves know to look under mats and in the gravel for fake rocks to find hidden keys, so instead leave a spare with a trusted neighbor. If you live in a rural area and your closest neighbor is miles down the road, opt for a combination lockbox in a discreet area of your property.
Add privacy film to decorative glass on and around exterior doors. Stained and decorative glass displays can be a beautiful addition to any entrance, but they can present a bit of a security issue. Line them with privacy film to distort the view from the outside and reduce the chances of window shopping or alerting an unwanted visitor to your presence (or lack thereof). This can be especially beneficial for anyone who lives alone or in a house with children old enough to be left on their own.
Consider buying a home security system. There are countless features with any security system, and some particularly valuable ones are outdoor motion detectors, sensors at exterior doors, windows, and the door attached to the garage, an outdoor alarm to alert other neighbors to an intrusion, and security cameras. Select the features that best fit your needs and be sure to go with a well-known, reputable company. Once it’s installed, make it a regular habit to use it. Though it may seem inconvenient to have to arm the system every time you leave the house, many burglars are aware that the responsibility is often neglected and may not be deterred by window stickers or yard signs warning of home protection.
Do your best to learn and inform your family about the security system to cut down on false alarms. They can actually bring on expensive fines not to mention annoy your neighbors. Plus, you don’t want to have a boy-who-cried-wolf effect where your neighbors eventually learn to ignore your alarm anytime it goes off! Reinforce windows with safety glass or metal bars. It may seem an extreme step, but burglars will often break a small window in order to gain entry. Make it impossible for them to break through by installing safety glass or impossible to squeeze through by installing metal bars. There are plenty of decorative options for metal grilles that can make the adjustment both practical and aesthetically-pleasing.
Protecting Your Home While You’re on Vacation
Double- and triple-check all doors and windows before you leave. Make sure your house is as locked-up and secure as it can be in your absence. (Don’t forget the door leading to the garage!) Be sure to leave some curtains and blinds open to give the illusion that someone is around. Thieves tend to take note of a house that’s clearly been closed up.
Talk to a trusted neighbor about helping create a “lived-in” look. Have them use your outdoor trash cans and collect your mail, newspapers, and any delivered packages. Stacked up mail and newspapers along with empty trash cans can be a clear sign to anyone that you’re not home and may be gone a while. If you’re taking a winter getaway, ask your neighbor to create tire tracks in your driveway and leave footprints leading up to your front door to create the illusion that someone is home. If you’re taking an extended summer vacation, pay someone to cut your grass and keep the yard tidy.
Don’t forget to give your spare key directly to your neighbor rather than leaving it under the mat or in a faux rock or statue. It’s important to leave a key in case of emergencies, but it’s also helpful to have someone check in on your home periodically to ensure no one has entered in your absence. Make sure you leave a contact number where you can be reached while you’re away. And always return the favor to a neighbor in need! Put timers on lights. Select a few rooms in your house to remain lit to reduce the chances that any thief casing the neighborhood will notice that you’ve been gone. Have outdoor lights, especially around entrances, set to light up every evening. A bright house welcomes friendly guests, but a dark house welcomes undesirable visitors. Lock your garage door and disconnect the automatic opener. This is an easy, but often forgotten step to keep your home safe while away. Garage doors seem like impenetrable forces so it’s easy to overlook additional steps in securing them. But if you’re going to be gone for a week and won’t need the automatic lift anyway, why not disconnect it and add an easy extra layer of security?
Leave a radio on and turn down your doorbell. A battery-operated radio is a practical, cheap way to make it sound like someone is around. And since many burglars ring the doorbell or knock to see if anyone’s home turning down the sound of the doorbell combined with a loud radio will make thieves unsure if the house is empty or if the resident simply doesn’t hear the door.
Don’t advertise your trip. It’s pretty common for people to post all about their upcoming trip on social media, but avoid the urge. The more people who know your house will be empty, the more you open yourself up to the possibility of a break-in. Similarly, don’t leave a message on your landline answering machine that you’re out of town.
Home invasion and burglary may never truly be eliminated from society, but their threats shouldn’t cause you to live your life in fear. Take these simple measures to secure your home, and reduce the chances that a crook will even look at it twice!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6p5oZA0-ls
Install a Security Camera, either a doorbell ringer camera or system. Then register it with Watch KC : ( http://kcmo.gov/police/watchkc/ )
Protecting Your Home From the Outside
Walk around the exterior of your home and scout out its weaknesses. The best way to protect your home from the outside is to survey it with the eyes of a burglar. If you can easily tell that a window could be pried open, a thief will definitely be able to come to the same conclusion. You can even contact your local police department and they’ll provide a courtesy home assessment that can help you identify your home’s weak spots.
While you’re checking for vulnerable spots, take note of any expensive electronics, art, or furniture that is easily spotted through windows. You don’t have to redecorate your entire home to keep expensive items out of sight, but it doesn’t hurt to make small adjustments where you can. No need to tempt thieves any more than you have to!
Keep shrubbery around entrances and walkways trimmed. The last thing you want is to make it easier for a thief to hide when attempting to break in, so eliminate his options for hiding spots. He may only need a few minutes of cover to make his entry but with no place to hide while doing it, he’s less likely to even try. You could even plant thorny shrubs by your windows to make it not only difficult to break in, but painful!
Build a fence. If you don’t have one already, a fence can be an excellent way to keep unwanted visitors off your property. Open chain-link or ornamental metal fencing tend to be preferable and are ideally secured into concrete to prevent lifting. Solid fences can be easier to climb and offer thieves a place to hide, though some homeowners prefer them for privacy and noise reduction. You can better secure them by having sharp pointed tops or, if you don’t mind rough barbed wire fencing.
Stow expensive items like grills, cars, and bikes in the garage. Though it may seem like a hassle to roll out the grill for every barbecue, leaving it out makes it an easy target for thieves. They don’t even have to enter your home to grab it, and if it’s got wheels it can be a breeze to sneak away with. If your area only offers street parking, always lock your car and be sure to park in a well-lit area.
Use curtains on garage and basement windows. Chances are these areas don’t need the sunlight, so put up curtains or blinds for privacy and protection. Stowing your outdoor valuables only does so much good if they’re constantly on display!
Install motion sensor lighting around your home, especially at entrances. Shine a spotlight on a potential intruder before he can even touch your doors or windows by adding extra lighting with motion detectors at entrances and especially dark corners of your home. If you live in an apartment, ask your landlord to install sufficient lighting in walkways and halls to eliminate dark corners.
Get to know your neighbors. Crime tends to be lower in tight-knit communities because neighbors are more likely to look out for each other and can easily spot a stranger. Your neighbors can be one of your best assets in home crime prevention because they offer extra eyes and an outside perspective. Plus if they have a different work or school schedule from yours, they might be around during the day when you’re away and can alert you to any suspicious activity that may occur in your absence.
Keep your yard free of toys, tools, and ladders. A yard littered with toys signals to a thief that the house may be filled with equally interesting entertainment, like game consoles, tablets, or laptops. A ladder or toolbox left out even briefly for an afternoon can give an opportunistic thief help in gaining access to your house.
Talk to your neighborhood association about increased lighting on your street. Burglars often case an entire street or neighborhood to determine if it’s a good target, but often prefer to do so in the dark of night. A well-lit neighborhood will likely deter him from your area, or at the very least make it very difficult for him to slip away undetected.
Prune trees around two-story homes. A determined crook may scale a tree and break into an upstairs window if branches are long enough to give him access. If you have a second floor, trim back tree branches to prevent a cat burglar from making his move.
Consider forming a neighborhood watch program. This will give you the opportunity to get to know your neighbors better. and create an invaluable awareness and commitment to crime prevention in your area. You can speak to your local police department about giving your group an informal lecture that can provide insight into identifying a suspicious person and what to do if you spot one loitering on your street, how to recognize a burglary in progress, how to recognize an auto theft in progress, and what to do in an emergency. Local PD will also usually distribute free literature on home safety and sometimes even offer window stickers and ID cards identifying your neighborhood organization.
Work with your neighbors to clean up the neighborhood if needed. A run-down, graffiti-lined, littered street can send the message to criminals that the residents of your area don’t care about the neighborhood or each other. That makes a prime location for theft. You can contact your local public works department to assist in the clean-up. It can be an excellent chance to bond with your neighbors, not to mention make your area a more beautiful place to live.
Keep fences, gates, and garage doors locked. It’s worth investing in a quality padlock for each outside entrance, even if you only lock it at night. However, since most friends and family won’t mind calling ahead to let you know they’re visiting, it’s best to leave them locked at all times. Never leave your garage door open if you aren’t in it or outside and able to keep an eye on it.
Install large, reflective numbers on your house and mailbox. This makes it easier for police to identify your home in the event of an emergency. Burglars prefer dark houses difficult to identify by address as it can buy them crucial spare moments in the event they’re caught in the act.
Secure your car. If you must park on the street, do so in a well-lit area and bring valuables like cell phones, purses, GPS devices, and satellite radios inside. Never leave anything of value in plain view, and always lock the doors and roll up windows. Break-ins can occur in even the safest neighborhoods, and an unlocked car is one of the easiest possible targets. Never leave a spare key in the visor or anywhere else inside, even if the car is locked.
Protecting Your Home from the Inside
Keep all doors and windows closed and locked at all times. An open exterior window or door is an invitation for burglars to easily enter your home, so keep them shut and securely locked whether you’re home or not. Don’t underestimate strong window locks, and update them if needed. Thieves know how to spot weak locks that would be easily forced open. Make sure exterior doors have deadbolt locks. Sliding doors should have vertical bolts and a metal or wooden rod in the track to prevent being forced open or doors being lifted off the track. Never leave your home without locking the front door, no matter how brief your trip. Even if it’s pouring rain, don’t forget to take the extra moment to lock up. Burglars don’t take days off due to weather!
And don’t forget the door attached to the garage. It’s one of the easiest targets and a likely route of entry. Don’t depend on your automatic garage door for full security.
Change the locks when moving into a new place. If you’re a renter, ask the landlord to change them if it wasn’t already done. Even if an old tenant returned all the keys originally issued, there’s no way to know for sure if there were ever other copies made and distributed. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to a stranger being able to walk into your locked home.
Secure valuables in a home safe or lockbox. If it is small and not mounted, consider having your safe bolted to the floor since many burglars will simply take it with them Give your pass code or combination only to a trusted loved one in case of emergency. Don’t leave it posted anywhere in your house easily accessible to an intruder.
Don’t label your personal keys or or hide spares outside. If your keys are labeled and get lost or stolen you could be in big trouble, especially if your wallet with your ID and address are with them. And thieves know to look under mats and in the gravel for fake rocks to find hidden keys, so instead leave a spare with a trusted neighbor. If you live in a rural area and your closest neighbor is miles down the road, opt for a combination lockbox in a discreet area of your property.
Add privacy film to decorative glass on and around exterior doors. Stained and decorative glass displays can be a beautiful addition to any entrance, but they can present a bit of a security issue. Line them with privacy film to distort the view from the outside and reduce the chances of window shopping or alerting an unwanted visitor to your presence (or lack thereof). This can be especially beneficial for anyone who lives alone or in a house with children old enough to be left on their own.
Consider buying a home security system. There are countless features with any security system, and some particularly valuable ones are outdoor motion detectors, sensors at exterior doors, windows, and the door attached to the garage, an outdoor alarm to alert other neighbors to an intrusion, and security cameras. Select the features that best fit your needs and be sure to go with a well-known, reputable company. Once it’s installed, make it a regular habit to use it. Though it may seem inconvenient to have to arm the system every time you leave the house, many burglars are aware that the responsibility is often neglected and may not be deterred by window stickers or yard signs warning of home protection.
Do your best to learn and inform your family about the security system to cut down on false alarms. They can actually bring on expensive fines not to mention annoy your neighbors. Plus, you don’t want to have a boy-who-cried-wolf effect where your neighbors eventually learn to ignore your alarm anytime it goes off! Reinforce windows with safety glass or metal bars. It may seem an extreme step, but burglars will often break a small window in order to gain entry. Make it impossible for them to break through by installing safety glass or impossible to squeeze through by installing metal bars. There are plenty of decorative options for metal grilles that can make the adjustment both practical and aesthetically-pleasing.
Protecting Your Home While You’re on Vacation
Double- and triple-check all doors and windows before you leave. Make sure your house is as locked-up and secure as it can be in your absence. (Don’t forget the door leading to the garage!) Be sure to leave some curtains and blinds open to give the illusion that someone is around. Thieves tend to take note of a house that’s clearly been closed up.
Talk to a trusted neighbor about helping create a “lived-in” look. Have them use your outdoor trash cans and collect your mail, newspapers, and any delivered packages. Stacked up mail and newspapers along with empty trash cans can be a clear sign to anyone that you’re not home and may be gone a while. If you’re taking a winter getaway, ask your neighbor to create tire tracks in your driveway and leave footprints leading up to your front door to create the illusion that someone is home. If you’re taking an extended summer vacation, pay someone to cut your grass and keep the yard tidy.
Don’t forget to give your spare key directly to your neighbor rather than leaving it under the mat or in a faux rock or statue. It’s important to leave a key in case of emergencies, but it’s also helpful to have someone check in on your home periodically to ensure no one has entered in your absence. Make sure you leave a contact number where you can be reached while you’re away. And always return the favor to a neighbor in need! Put timers on lights. Select a few rooms in your house to remain lit to reduce the chances that any thief casing the neighborhood will notice that you’ve been gone. Have outdoor lights, especially around entrances, set to light up every evening. A bright house welcomes friendly guests, but a dark house welcomes undesirable visitors. Lock your garage door and disconnect the automatic opener. This is an easy, but often forgotten step to keep your home safe while away. Garage doors seem like impenetrable forces so it’s easy to overlook additional steps in securing them. But if you’re going to be gone for a week and won’t need the automatic lift anyway, why not disconnect it and add an easy extra layer of security?
Leave a radio on and turn down your doorbell. A battery-operated radio is a practical, cheap way to make it sound like someone is around. And since many burglars ring the doorbell or knock to see if anyone’s home turning down the sound of the doorbell combined with a loud radio will make thieves unsure if the house is empty or if the resident simply doesn’t hear the door.
Don’t advertise your trip. It’s pretty common for people to post all about their upcoming trip on social media, but avoid the urge. The more people who know your house will be empty, the more you open yourself up to the possibility of a break-in. Similarly, don’t leave a message on your landline answering machine that you’re out of town.
Home invasion and burglary may never truly be eliminated from society, but their threats shouldn’t cause you to live your life in fear. Take these simple measures to secure your home, and reduce the chances that a crook will even look at it twice!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6p5oZA0-ls
From Our Community Interaction Officer - Summer Crime Tips
From Our Shoal Creek Patrol Station's Community Interaction Officer comes Summer Crime Prevention tips...
Summer Time Thievery........Easy tips of Prevention........
One of the number one way burglaries happen in the Northland during the Summer Months is garage doors being left open.
We are in a hurry along with our Family members during summer months. Especially with our teens coming and going since school is out. How about when we do yard work and leave it open because someone is inside. It only takes a someone trolling through our neighborhoods to run inside the garage and steal something.
Slow down and make sure the garage door is down when ever you leave it unattended.
********** GARAGE DOOR OPENERS ***********
Don't leave them ever in your vehicle. Even when you are out and about. If you accidentally leave your car door unlocked to run in and out, its easy for someone to get inside the vehicle, open the glove box and look for any proof of where you live on a registration, or any other document. They then swipe the garage door opener and know where to go to open the door.
Also don't just leave the garage opener in the car at the house, especially parked outside. Again if you are in a hurry, you run inside after starting the vehicle and its unlocked, the thief opens the car door while you are inside and grabs the garage door opener. Now they can just hide a block or so away and wait when you leave and have access into your home.
Here are some additional Helpful tips on how to protect your home from burglary.
With a home burglary occurring every 15 seconds in the U.S., it’s wise to be protected in case your residence falls victim to theft.
Common-sense home theft prevention tips: 5 ways to help protect your home from thieves
1.) Home security system – Deter thieves with noise or an automatic call to the police.
2.) Proper outside lighting – Thieves may choose to bypass a well-lit home.
3.) Strong exterior doors – Solid wood or metal provides stronger protection against break-ins.
4.) Block windows for the basement or locked window well covers – Use these to keep thieves from seeing or entering your basement.
5.) Locks for pet doors – Make sure your pet door isn’t a point of entry for a thief.
Additional security tips:
- Store lock boxes or safes in a hidden area of the house.
- The basement or lowest level is recommended to reduce the risk of heat damage from a fire.
- Keep all personal information (passports, financial statements, etc.) in a locked, fire proof safe or a safety deposit box.
- Store ladders, tools and any other outside objects that can be used to assist in home entry in a locked shed or garage.
- Keep garage doors closed and locked. If the garage doors have windows, put the garage door release cord away from those windows.
- Replace worn keypad entry devices. After extensive use, the combination of numbers and letters could be visible, providing criminals with information that can be used to gain access to your home.
- Change the home's entry device access code periodically to prevent wear.
- Make sure the home’s address is visible for police, firemen and paramedics for easy identification of the home.
- Don’t post the family name on the mailbox or on the house.
- Don’t talk about vacation plans in public areas, such as the beauty shop, shopping mall, car rental office - or even on social media.
- Secure a wireless network at home. Computer access could allow cyber criminals easy access to confidential personal information. Before placing anything in the garbage, do the following: Shred all papers. Destroy old computer hard drives. Break down all boxes for high value equipment. Brand names on boxes alert thieves to items inside the house.
Be safe from crime this summer!
Summer Time Thievery........Easy tips of Prevention........
One of the number one way burglaries happen in the Northland during the Summer Months is garage doors being left open.
We are in a hurry along with our Family members during summer months. Especially with our teens coming and going since school is out. How about when we do yard work and leave it open because someone is inside. It only takes a someone trolling through our neighborhoods to run inside the garage and steal something.
Slow down and make sure the garage door is down when ever you leave it unattended.
********** GARAGE DOOR OPENERS ***********
Don't leave them ever in your vehicle. Even when you are out and about. If you accidentally leave your car door unlocked to run in and out, its easy for someone to get inside the vehicle, open the glove box and look for any proof of where you live on a registration, or any other document. They then swipe the garage door opener and know where to go to open the door.
Also don't just leave the garage opener in the car at the house, especially parked outside. Again if you are in a hurry, you run inside after starting the vehicle and its unlocked, the thief opens the car door while you are inside and grabs the garage door opener. Now they can just hide a block or so away and wait when you leave and have access into your home.
Here are some additional Helpful tips on how to protect your home from burglary.
With a home burglary occurring every 15 seconds in the U.S., it’s wise to be protected in case your residence falls victim to theft.
Common-sense home theft prevention tips: 5 ways to help protect your home from thieves
1.) Home security system – Deter thieves with noise or an automatic call to the police.
2.) Proper outside lighting – Thieves may choose to bypass a well-lit home.
3.) Strong exterior doors – Solid wood or metal provides stronger protection against break-ins.
4.) Block windows for the basement or locked window well covers – Use these to keep thieves from seeing or entering your basement.
5.) Locks for pet doors – Make sure your pet door isn’t a point of entry for a thief.
Additional security tips:
- Store lock boxes or safes in a hidden area of the house.
- The basement or lowest level is recommended to reduce the risk of heat damage from a fire.
- Keep all personal information (passports, financial statements, etc.) in a locked, fire proof safe or a safety deposit box.
- Store ladders, tools and any other outside objects that can be used to assist in home entry in a locked shed or garage.
- Keep garage doors closed and locked. If the garage doors have windows, put the garage door release cord away from those windows.
- Replace worn keypad entry devices. After extensive use, the combination of numbers and letters could be visible, providing criminals with information that can be used to gain access to your home.
- Change the home's entry device access code periodically to prevent wear.
- Make sure the home’s address is visible for police, firemen and paramedics for easy identification of the home.
- Don’t post the family name on the mailbox or on the house.
- Don’t talk about vacation plans in public areas, such as the beauty shop, shopping mall, car rental office - or even on social media.
- Secure a wireless network at home. Computer access could allow cyber criminals easy access to confidential personal information. Before placing anything in the garbage, do the following: Shred all papers. Destroy old computer hard drives. Break down all boxes for high value equipment. Brand names on boxes alert thieves to items inside the house.
Be safe from crime this summer!
Soliciting Within Our Neighborhood
Several residents have voiced concern regarding repeated attempts of soliciting by an Aptive Environmental Pest Control sales representative the last couple of days and evenings. Many residents in our subdivision have "no soliciting" signs posted and this has not deterred the solicitor. I contacted the company and explained the behavior of the representative and they will notify him to cease ringing doorbells or knocking on doors within Charleston Harbor.
I'd recommend that our neighbors consider placing a "no soliciting" sign at their front door. Here's an explanation from the Kansas City Mo. Police Department regarding solicitation in neighborhoods...
You may place a homemade sign on your door that states “NO SOLICITING” and if someone ignores the sign and rings your doorbell or knocks on your door, you can tell them to leave your property or you will call 911 and have them cited for trespassing. Not all door to door sales people are trying to scam you but it’s better to be safe than become a victim of a crime. Whatever item someone is trying to sell you, chances are you can go to a store and buy it to have a receipt to take it back if it doesn’t work or you don’t like it. NEVER let anyone you don’t know or a person you didn’t call to your home in your residence. If someone needs to use the phone, use the bathroom, get change for transaction, etc. direct them to the nearest gas station or retail store. Always ask to see a company ID if you are willing to talk to the sales person and know you can terminate the conversation at any time by telling them you are not interested in what they are selling and advise them to leave your property and take you off their contact list.
I'd recommend that our neighbors consider placing a "no soliciting" sign at their front door. Here's an explanation from the Kansas City Mo. Police Department regarding solicitation in neighborhoods...
You may place a homemade sign on your door that states “NO SOLICITING” and if someone ignores the sign and rings your doorbell or knocks on your door, you can tell them to leave your property or you will call 911 and have them cited for trespassing. Not all door to door sales people are trying to scam you but it’s better to be safe than become a victim of a crime. Whatever item someone is trying to sell you, chances are you can go to a store and buy it to have a receipt to take it back if it doesn’t work or you don’t like it. NEVER let anyone you don’t know or a person you didn’t call to your home in your residence. If someone needs to use the phone, use the bathroom, get change for transaction, etc. direct them to the nearest gas station or retail store. Always ask to see a company ID if you are willing to talk to the sales person and know you can terminate the conversation at any time by telling them you are not interested in what they are selling and advise them to leave your property and take you off their contact list.
Increase In Traffic Complaints
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From William Keeney, Community Interaction Officer, Shoal Creek Patrol Division - Kansas City Police Dept.
Spring has sprung as well as the aggressive driving, speeding and unsafe driving. So who do you call? You can file the complaint online and I have included this link below. If you need immediate police attention for an emergency situation, do not use this form. Instead, call 911. This online traffic complaint form is designed to allow residents of Kansas City, Mo., to report directly to the KCPD traffic problems that are occurring either in their neighborhood or in a particular part of the city. Examples of such complaints are speeding vehicles, vehicles running stop signs, making illegal turns, failing to yield at crosswalks and other hazardous violations. For issues such as malfunctioning traffic lights, missing street signs, potholes, etc., please report these by using the City’s 311 Action Center. Call 311 or 816-513-1313. This complaint form should not be used to file a complaint about having received a traffic citation or to complain about the behavior of a member of the KCPD. For those issues, please contact the patrol division station responsible for the area in which you live. If you submit this form, an officer could contact you to clarify information, report enforcement activity or to follow up with you on the results of your complaint. Therefore, your contact information is required. Anonymous complaints will be received, but no action will be taken. Your information will be considered confidential and will not be released to any outside individual or organization. ( http://kcmo.gov/police/traffic-complaints/#.WvxGkKQvwdU ) |
Check Your Cameras And BE Aware!!
From William Keeney, Community Interaction Officer, Shoal Creek Patrol Division - Kansas City Police Dept.
Check You Camera's and Be Aware!!!!We have been having an increase in Theft from Autos or (TFA).
This is where the thief will troll through our neighborhoods pulling on car doors. The thief finds an unlocked door and will go through your vehicle.
On the night of 05/14/2018, 9 victims living in the Shoal Creek Patrol Division, made police reports for their vehicles having been ransacked and items stolen. Things reported stolen were one handgun, cash, lap top / mac book, sport equipment, credit cards, fuel cards and other misc. items. I hope anyone and everyone are reporting if they have been a victim.
I also encourage for you to look at your surveillance cameras even if you were not a victim. You might have caught the thief on video.
Each year, $1.255 billion in personal items and accessories are stolen from vehicles in about 1.85 million thefts; and for every theft, experts estimate, there are several break-ins and attempted break-ins. With these common sense habits and preventative measures, you can greatly reduce the chances your vehicle will become a target.
Lock your doors
While this piece of advice should be a no-brainer, up to a quarter of vehicle thefts are from unlocked cars, according to some law enforcement agencies. Even if you're running into the store for a Coke, that's too long to leave your vehicle's contents open for the taking. Simply locking the doors will deter those who might just be waiting around for an easy target.
Keep It Tidy
Almost any worthless personal item that's visible from the outside -- even an empty shopping bag -- could be seen as a valuable or a carrier of valuables. If you have a wagon or SUV that leaves your cargo area on display, consider getting a cover. Most of these vehicles can be fitted with inexpensive retractable covers to help keep shopping bags or other belongings out of sight.
Conceal All The Evidence
Don't leave any bait out for thieves; stow your electronics and accessories well out of sight-or better yet, bring it with you. The evidence alone might be enough to pique the interest of thieves, so hide that too, including power plugs, telltale iPod adapters, or nav-system windshield suction-cup mounts, and even put the cigarette lighter back in place.
Stash Before -- Not After -- You Park
Get in the habit of putting shopping bags in the trunk right when you return to the vehicle, rather than after you park at the next place. According to National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) spokesman Frank Scafidi, thieves sometimes linger in busy parking lots looking for valuables being moved out of sight. Don't display to them what you have.
Completely Close Windows and Sunroofs
No, it's not just because thieves might reach in through the gap and open your locks with a coat hanger. Open windows will disable the pressure sensor in some car alarms, leaving the vehicle more vulnerable to break-in and potentially giving thieves more time before the alarm sounds.
Get An Alarm
If you don't have an alarm system, get one. The noise alone may be enough to scare away an inexperienced thief and prevent the break-in. Factory-option alarm systems are generally best, but a carefully installed, properly calibrated aftermarket system can provide just as much safety. Beware, many less-expensive new cars have remote entry but not a true alarm.
Stick With The Original Audio System
Thefts of car audio components are on the decline, but having an aftermarket system still makes a car more attractive to thieves thinking of breaking in. There's no black market to speak of for factory stereos, and they've become much better sounding in recent years.
Park For Visibility
Park in a busy, well-lit area, and avoid concealment from larger vehicles, fences, or foliage. Except for the most brazen thieves, the greater the chances are that someone might see a crime in progress, the lower the chances are that the potential thief will attempt it.
Get Physical
A significant portion of vehicles are broken into with the intent of stealing the vehicle itself, so combining several visible simple, inexpensive physical theft deterrents like steering wheel locks (The Club), steering column collars, or brake pedal locks may discourage the would-be thief from breaking in and trying. Layer your defenses That's the strategy recommended by the NICB; layers include warning devices such as alarms, wheel etching, or decals; immobilizers; and even tracking systems (LoJack is one). "None of them are foolproof, but if they're used in tandem they can really keep the chances down," agrees Loretta Worters, vice president of the Insurance Information Institute.
Sources: The National Insurance Crime Bureau, the Insurance Information Institute, Progressive, and AAA.
Check You Camera's and Be Aware!!!!We have been having an increase in Theft from Autos or (TFA).
This is where the thief will troll through our neighborhoods pulling on car doors. The thief finds an unlocked door and will go through your vehicle.
On the night of 05/14/2018, 9 victims living in the Shoal Creek Patrol Division, made police reports for their vehicles having been ransacked and items stolen. Things reported stolen were one handgun, cash, lap top / mac book, sport equipment, credit cards, fuel cards and other misc. items. I hope anyone and everyone are reporting if they have been a victim.
I also encourage for you to look at your surveillance cameras even if you were not a victim. You might have caught the thief on video.
Each year, $1.255 billion in personal items and accessories are stolen from vehicles in about 1.85 million thefts; and for every theft, experts estimate, there are several break-ins and attempted break-ins. With these common sense habits and preventative measures, you can greatly reduce the chances your vehicle will become a target.
Lock your doors
While this piece of advice should be a no-brainer, up to a quarter of vehicle thefts are from unlocked cars, according to some law enforcement agencies. Even if you're running into the store for a Coke, that's too long to leave your vehicle's contents open for the taking. Simply locking the doors will deter those who might just be waiting around for an easy target.
Keep It Tidy
Almost any worthless personal item that's visible from the outside -- even an empty shopping bag -- could be seen as a valuable or a carrier of valuables. If you have a wagon or SUV that leaves your cargo area on display, consider getting a cover. Most of these vehicles can be fitted with inexpensive retractable covers to help keep shopping bags or other belongings out of sight.
Conceal All The Evidence
Don't leave any bait out for thieves; stow your electronics and accessories well out of sight-or better yet, bring it with you. The evidence alone might be enough to pique the interest of thieves, so hide that too, including power plugs, telltale iPod adapters, or nav-system windshield suction-cup mounts, and even put the cigarette lighter back in place.
Stash Before -- Not After -- You Park
Get in the habit of putting shopping bags in the trunk right when you return to the vehicle, rather than after you park at the next place. According to National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) spokesman Frank Scafidi, thieves sometimes linger in busy parking lots looking for valuables being moved out of sight. Don't display to them what you have.
Completely Close Windows and Sunroofs
No, it's not just because thieves might reach in through the gap and open your locks with a coat hanger. Open windows will disable the pressure sensor in some car alarms, leaving the vehicle more vulnerable to break-in and potentially giving thieves more time before the alarm sounds.
Get An Alarm
If you don't have an alarm system, get one. The noise alone may be enough to scare away an inexperienced thief and prevent the break-in. Factory-option alarm systems are generally best, but a carefully installed, properly calibrated aftermarket system can provide just as much safety. Beware, many less-expensive new cars have remote entry but not a true alarm.
Stick With The Original Audio System
Thefts of car audio components are on the decline, but having an aftermarket system still makes a car more attractive to thieves thinking of breaking in. There's no black market to speak of for factory stereos, and they've become much better sounding in recent years.
Park For Visibility
Park in a busy, well-lit area, and avoid concealment from larger vehicles, fences, or foliage. Except for the most brazen thieves, the greater the chances are that someone might see a crime in progress, the lower the chances are that the potential thief will attempt it.
Get Physical
A significant portion of vehicles are broken into with the intent of stealing the vehicle itself, so combining several visible simple, inexpensive physical theft deterrents like steering wheel locks (The Club), steering column collars, or brake pedal locks may discourage the would-be thief from breaking in and trying. Layer your defenses That's the strategy recommended by the NICB; layers include warning devices such as alarms, wheel etching, or decals; immobilizers; and even tracking systems (LoJack is one). "None of them are foolproof, but if they're used in tandem they can really keep the chances down," agrees Loretta Worters, vice president of the Insurance Information Institute.
Sources: The National Insurance Crime Bureau, the Insurance Information Institute, Progressive, and AAA.
Garage Sale Season......Safety Tips & Up coming Neighborhood Garage Sales
Warm weather is coming. It is the perfect time of year for holding a garage sale to declutter and pass on your junk as someone else's treasure.
Such sales, however, can be prime targets for shoplifters and other criminals. Follow these tips to help keep your sale on the safe side.
1. Team up. Have a multi-family garage sale, or a neighborhood garage sale.
2. Keep a watch. Do not go inside and leave your merchandise unattended. Someone should be at or near the checkout table at all times, with another person walking around, straightening items and talking to shoppers.
3. Greet everyone who walks up. Make sure they know you have seen them.
4. Keep just enough cash on hand to make change. Put extra money in the house.
5. Keep larger, higher-priced items near the garage.
6. Do not accept large bills.
7. Keep cash you have been given laying out while you make change. This will keep con artists from trying to tell you they gave you a larger bill then they actually did.
8. Keep your cell phone or home phone close by.
9. Do not let strangers come in your house for any reason. If someone needs to use the restroom, direct them to the nearest gas station or grocery store.
10. Post your license. Some cities and counties require a license that displays the dates of the sale. Knowing that the city government or police department has a record of the sale may be a deterrent for troublemakers or shoplifters.
11. Tell others. Make sure the neighbors are aware of your sale — the dates and times.
12. Keep the sale in plain sight. Set items outside the garage and on out toward the sidewalk or street. This keeps you from getting trapped in a place where others can't see.
13. Lock up. Keep the front door to the house locked, as well as the door from the garage — and make sure you have the key.
14. Inform the police. Let your community police officer or local police department know about your sale.
15. Post a sign with your rules. Only cash accepted, all sales are final, etc.
16. Get help with young kids. It's too easy to get distracted with little ones around. Get a babysitter or neighbor to watch them, or take turns with others involved in the sale
17. Remember that your safety is more important than your stuff. If you feel frightened because of someone at your sale, or are threatened in any way, do what is needed to keep you and your family safety
Such sales, however, can be prime targets for shoplifters and other criminals. Follow these tips to help keep your sale on the safe side.
1. Team up. Have a multi-family garage sale, or a neighborhood garage sale.
2. Keep a watch. Do not go inside and leave your merchandise unattended. Someone should be at or near the checkout table at all times, with another person walking around, straightening items and talking to shoppers.
3. Greet everyone who walks up. Make sure they know you have seen them.
4. Keep just enough cash on hand to make change. Put extra money in the house.
5. Keep larger, higher-priced items near the garage.
6. Do not accept large bills.
7. Keep cash you have been given laying out while you make change. This will keep con artists from trying to tell you they gave you a larger bill then they actually did.
8. Keep your cell phone or home phone close by.
9. Do not let strangers come in your house for any reason. If someone needs to use the restroom, direct them to the nearest gas station or grocery store.
10. Post your license. Some cities and counties require a license that displays the dates of the sale. Knowing that the city government or police department has a record of the sale may be a deterrent for troublemakers or shoplifters.
11. Tell others. Make sure the neighbors are aware of your sale — the dates and times.
12. Keep the sale in plain sight. Set items outside the garage and on out toward the sidewalk or street. This keeps you from getting trapped in a place where others can't see.
13. Lock up. Keep the front door to the house locked, as well as the door from the garage — and make sure you have the key.
14. Inform the police. Let your community police officer or local police department know about your sale.
15. Post a sign with your rules. Only cash accepted, all sales are final, etc.
16. Get help with young kids. It's too easy to get distracted with little ones around. Get a babysitter or neighbor to watch them, or take turns with others involved in the sale
17. Remember that your safety is more important than your stuff. If you feel frightened because of someone at your sale, or are threatened in any way, do what is needed to keep you and your family safety
New "iCloud Breach" Scam Alert
From Public Relations Specialist, Sarah Boyd, Kansas City Police Dept.
SCAM ALERT: We have had a few reports of a new "iCloud breach" scam. One such call even went to the personal phone of a detective in our Economic Crimes Unit. (the people who investigate those scams!) The scam is a robocall to the victim advising of an iCloud breach, and the call provides two prompts to continue. The call states to press 1 to speak to a "support advisor," who will want to "verify your banking information" (i.e. get all your bank account info.) or Press 2 to listen to the options again. A “toll-free” number will also be provided to contact a "support advisor" at a later date. Just hang up and definitely don't provide any bank account information.
We're still learning about the different variations of this scam, but feel free to search "iCloud breach scam 2018" to see what others have experienced.
SCAM ALERT: We have had a few reports of a new "iCloud breach" scam. One such call even went to the personal phone of a detective in our Economic Crimes Unit. (the people who investigate those scams!) The scam is a robocall to the victim advising of an iCloud breach, and the call provides two prompts to continue. The call states to press 1 to speak to a "support advisor," who will want to "verify your banking information" (i.e. get all your bank account info.) or Press 2 to listen to the options again. A “toll-free” number will also be provided to contact a "support advisor" at a later date. Just hang up and definitely don't provide any bank account information.
We're still learning about the different variations of this scam, but feel free to search "iCloud breach scam 2018" to see what others have experienced.
KCPD Doubles Officers Dedicated To Working With Neighborhoods
From Chief Smith's blog:
The Kansas City Missouri Police Department now has twice as many police officers dedicated to working directly with neighborhoods. As promised, two Community Interaction Officers now are assigned to each of our six patrol divisions. The second set started March 26, 2018. That makes for a dozen officers who are dedicated to working proactively to empower neighborhoods, resolve ongoing issues and prevent crime.
Historically, Community Interaction Officers (CIOs) at KCPD have helped facilitate communication between the Police Department and the residents of Kansas City. They encourage residents to be actively involved in anti-crime efforts and promote community support for the police department through positive interaction and partnerships with the community. CIOs meet with members of the community on a regular basis to address specific community problems and plausible solutions. But what about neighborhoods and residents who don’t engage with police or each other? One thing we know for sure is that strong neighborhoods – those that are well organized and whose residents are engaged and look out for each other – have less crime.
So all 12 CIOs have been tasked with engaging and empowering neighborhoods that lack organization and involvement. We are partnering with the UMKC Center for Neighborhoods to help identify community leaders, implement crime prevention strategies and empower residents to improve their quality of life.
The new set of Community Interaction Officers are assigned to work from 1 to 9 p.m. This allows them to engage with people who may not have been involved before because they work during the day. The new CIOs’ shifts overlap with the existing CIOs so they can coordinate, but they’re expanded into the evening to increase the opportunity for residents to work with us. The new, second-shift CIOs were chosen by patrol division leaders based on their experience and desire to build community relationships and help solve neighborhood problems. They’re being implemented now because we have a class of Academy graduates who are now off their probationary period. I did not want to pull existing officers off the streets.
The CIOs all will be trained in the proven crime prevention strategy of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). They will be ready to help residents and businesses create an environment that deters criminal activity. This approach has seen success elsewhere. The New York City Police Department implemented two Neighborhood Coordination Officers (very similar to our CIOs) in about 20 of their precincts in 2015. They’ve continued to expand it city-wide. In 2017, New York City’s overall crime rate was at its lowest level since 1951, and its 2017 homicides were the lowest in 70 years.
We would love to see similar results in Kansas City. But the police are only part of the solution. The resident engagement piece is huge, and we cannot reduce crime and improve quality of life without it. If we were all neighborly, looked out for each other and reported crime, we’d have a much safer city. We don’t want your only contact with police to be during a crisis. We want to work with everyone proactively to prevent issues from escalating to that point. Below are the names of the Community Interaction Officers assigned to your patrol division, Shoal Creek Patrol Division, along with the division phone numbers, so you can call and ask for them. Those listed second are the newly assigned, second-shift CIOs. They all look forward to working with you!
Shoal Creek Patrol Division: 816-413-3440
Officer Bill Keeney
Officer Richard Jones
Your HOA Board and the Safety Committee encourages all homeowners to become engaged with each other in protecting our subdivision. GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS, share contact information, become familiar with neighbors' routines, watch out for each other.
The Kansas City Missouri Police Department now has twice as many police officers dedicated to working directly with neighborhoods. As promised, two Community Interaction Officers now are assigned to each of our six patrol divisions. The second set started March 26, 2018. That makes for a dozen officers who are dedicated to working proactively to empower neighborhoods, resolve ongoing issues and prevent crime.
Historically, Community Interaction Officers (CIOs) at KCPD have helped facilitate communication between the Police Department and the residents of Kansas City. They encourage residents to be actively involved in anti-crime efforts and promote community support for the police department through positive interaction and partnerships with the community. CIOs meet with members of the community on a regular basis to address specific community problems and plausible solutions. But what about neighborhoods and residents who don’t engage with police or each other? One thing we know for sure is that strong neighborhoods – those that are well organized and whose residents are engaged and look out for each other – have less crime.
So all 12 CIOs have been tasked with engaging and empowering neighborhoods that lack organization and involvement. We are partnering with the UMKC Center for Neighborhoods to help identify community leaders, implement crime prevention strategies and empower residents to improve their quality of life.
The new set of Community Interaction Officers are assigned to work from 1 to 9 p.m. This allows them to engage with people who may not have been involved before because they work during the day. The new CIOs’ shifts overlap with the existing CIOs so they can coordinate, but they’re expanded into the evening to increase the opportunity for residents to work with us. The new, second-shift CIOs were chosen by patrol division leaders based on their experience and desire to build community relationships and help solve neighborhood problems. They’re being implemented now because we have a class of Academy graduates who are now off their probationary period. I did not want to pull existing officers off the streets.
The CIOs all will be trained in the proven crime prevention strategy of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). They will be ready to help residents and businesses create an environment that deters criminal activity. This approach has seen success elsewhere. The New York City Police Department implemented two Neighborhood Coordination Officers (very similar to our CIOs) in about 20 of their precincts in 2015. They’ve continued to expand it city-wide. In 2017, New York City’s overall crime rate was at its lowest level since 1951, and its 2017 homicides were the lowest in 70 years.
We would love to see similar results in Kansas City. But the police are only part of the solution. The resident engagement piece is huge, and we cannot reduce crime and improve quality of life without it. If we were all neighborly, looked out for each other and reported crime, we’d have a much safer city. We don’t want your only contact with police to be during a crisis. We want to work with everyone proactively to prevent issues from escalating to that point. Below are the names of the Community Interaction Officers assigned to your patrol division, Shoal Creek Patrol Division, along with the division phone numbers, so you can call and ask for them. Those listed second are the newly assigned, second-shift CIOs. They all look forward to working with you!
Shoal Creek Patrol Division: 816-413-3440
Officer Bill Keeney
Officer Richard Jones
Your HOA Board and the Safety Committee encourages all homeowners to become engaged with each other in protecting our subdivision. GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS, share contact information, become familiar with neighbors' routines, watch out for each other.
Should I Call 9-1-1...Or Just Use Social Media?
From William Keeney, Community Interaction Officer, KCPD Shoal Creek Patrol Division
What is suspicious activity? "Am I witnessing a crime?"
Most of us have found ourselves wondering this at some point or another. However, because we're not really sure, we tend to ignore what we have just seen and, hoping it wasn't so, we continue about our business or post it on social media. People aren't suspicious, behavior is! Always consider the context for what you are witnessing and remember there may be a simple explanation for activity that at first glance appears suspicious.
Here are behaviors that may be associated with criminal activity:
-Someone walking down the street looking into multiple vehicles and/or trying door handles to see if the doors will open.
You might want to call 911
-Someone taking a package from someone else's property (keep in mind that sometimes neighbors leave or pick up packages for other neighbors). but....
You might want to call 911
-A person who is not your neighbor walking about your neighbor's home and looking into windows, or trying to gain access by forcing open a window or door.
You might want to call 911
-A person knocking on your door and asking to speak with someone who does not live there and who may also go to other homes knocking on doors. This is a tactic used by people with the intent to burglarize to see if people are home. (Keep in mind that people may mistakenly go to the wrong home.) but....
You might want to call 911
-Someone claiming to represent a utility company who is either not wearing a uniform, does not produce identification upon request, or does not have a company logo vehicle.
You might want to call 911
-Someone using binoculars or other devices to peer into your or your neighbors' homes.
You might want to call 911
-At night, a person sitting inside a vehicle that you do not recognize with the lights off for extended period of time.
You might want to call 911
-A pushy salesperson not producing identification upon your request or asking to come into your home.
You might want to call 911
-A vehicle you do not recognize that is circling multiple times around the neighborhood.
You might want to call 911
Remember, if you think that a crime may be occurring, or that the safety of you or your neighbors may be at risk, don't hesitate to call 911. You shouldn't worry about using up police time. Calls to 911 will be prioritized based on availability of law enforcement. Your call could be the one that lets us put a stop to the break-ins or a crime streak in your neighborhood. This information is logged and helps Crime Analyst find trends and creates important data. So don't judge the response time as a waste of time because your calls are important. Remember we are all one community and we are happy to check things out!
What is suspicious activity? "Am I witnessing a crime?"
Most of us have found ourselves wondering this at some point or another. However, because we're not really sure, we tend to ignore what we have just seen and, hoping it wasn't so, we continue about our business or post it on social media. People aren't suspicious, behavior is! Always consider the context for what you are witnessing and remember there may be a simple explanation for activity that at first glance appears suspicious.
Here are behaviors that may be associated with criminal activity:
-Someone walking down the street looking into multiple vehicles and/or trying door handles to see if the doors will open.
You might want to call 911
-Someone taking a package from someone else's property (keep in mind that sometimes neighbors leave or pick up packages for other neighbors). but....
You might want to call 911
-A person who is not your neighbor walking about your neighbor's home and looking into windows, or trying to gain access by forcing open a window or door.
You might want to call 911
-A person knocking on your door and asking to speak with someone who does not live there and who may also go to other homes knocking on doors. This is a tactic used by people with the intent to burglarize to see if people are home. (Keep in mind that people may mistakenly go to the wrong home.) but....
You might want to call 911
-Someone claiming to represent a utility company who is either not wearing a uniform, does not produce identification upon request, or does not have a company logo vehicle.
You might want to call 911
-Someone using binoculars or other devices to peer into your or your neighbors' homes.
You might want to call 911
-At night, a person sitting inside a vehicle that you do not recognize with the lights off for extended period of time.
You might want to call 911
-A pushy salesperson not producing identification upon your request or asking to come into your home.
You might want to call 911
-A vehicle you do not recognize that is circling multiple times around the neighborhood.
You might want to call 911
Remember, if you think that a crime may be occurring, or that the safety of you or your neighbors may be at risk, don't hesitate to call 911. You shouldn't worry about using up police time. Calls to 911 will be prioritized based on availability of law enforcement. Your call could be the one that lets us put a stop to the break-ins or a crime streak in your neighborhood. This information is logged and helps Crime Analyst find trends and creates important data. So don't judge the response time as a waste of time because your calls are important. Remember we are all one community and we are happy to check things out!
Thefts From Autos - Winter Season Starts - Please Practice Safety
SHOAL CREEKS PROPERTY CRIME UNIT : Patterns of Concern
Theft from Autos and stolen Auto season is upon us!!!!
Please discourage people from leaving their vehicles running in driveways/parking lots to warm in the mornings as the weather turns colder.
These stolen autos will spike as windows begin to frost in the mornings. (H.O.A's & Neighborhood Councils can help by sending out fliers to residences and posting on Social Media Sites.
Vehicle Safety & Theft Prevention Tips
Theft Prevention
Vehicles parked along city streets can be targeted for theft. These thefts are referred to as "smash and grabs". Criminals will often target vehicles that are parked in dark and isolated areas. Valuables left in plain view in the vehicle also may generate motivation for criminals to quickly break a window and grab them.
Therefore, always keep valuables out of plain view when parking your vehicle. Store items under seats or in the trunk. Otherwise, take your valuables with you.
Also, remove all GPS accessories and parts from plain view when parking your vehicle.
Awareness - Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
-Have your keys ready when approaching your vehicle, and do a quick scan of your rear seat before getting in.
-Be alert to any activity near your vehicle.
-Be aware of people who may be following you to your vehicle.
-Recognize that carjacking can occur anytime, anywhere in any neighborhood. Lock your doors when inside.
Alertness - Be Alert To Potential Dangers
-Exercise caution when people approach your vehicle requesting directions, change, or giving out flyers.
-When stopping in traffic, leave enough distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you so you can pull away quickly if needed.
-Be alert when approaching drive-up automated teller machines.
Avoidance - You Will Be Safer If You Avoid Certain Situations
-Don't get out of your vehicle if you witness suspicious circumstances. Drive away and call the police if necessary.
-Don't drive without locking your doors.
-Avoid using ATM's at night, especially if you see people loitering nearby.
-Never leave the keys in the ignition or the vehicle running for any reason.
-Never leave small children unattended in your vehicle.
-Avoid parking in secluded, poorly lit areas.
-Consider installation of an alarm system. Audible alarms could prevent your vehicle from being broken into or stolen.
-Keep all valuables out of sight when parking your vehicle.
-When having your vehicle serviced, or cleaned, remove your house keys from the key ring.
Actions - Certain Actions Will Help Keep You Safe
-If someone demands your car keys, don't resist. Nothing is more valuable than your life.
-Try to keep a cellular phone accessible when driving.
-Keep a pen and notebook accessible in your vehicle to write down important information about suspicious circumstances.
-In case of a vehicle breakdown, call the police for help and use great caution when approached by unknown individuals. -Place a "CALL POLICE" sign in your back window.
Theft from Autos and stolen Auto season is upon us!!!!
Please discourage people from leaving their vehicles running in driveways/parking lots to warm in the mornings as the weather turns colder.
These stolen autos will spike as windows begin to frost in the mornings. (H.O.A's & Neighborhood Councils can help by sending out fliers to residences and posting on Social Media Sites.
Vehicle Safety & Theft Prevention Tips
Theft Prevention
Vehicles parked along city streets can be targeted for theft. These thefts are referred to as "smash and grabs". Criminals will often target vehicles that are parked in dark and isolated areas. Valuables left in plain view in the vehicle also may generate motivation for criminals to quickly break a window and grab them.
Therefore, always keep valuables out of plain view when parking your vehicle. Store items under seats or in the trunk. Otherwise, take your valuables with you.
Also, remove all GPS accessories and parts from plain view when parking your vehicle.
Awareness - Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
-Have your keys ready when approaching your vehicle, and do a quick scan of your rear seat before getting in.
-Be alert to any activity near your vehicle.
-Be aware of people who may be following you to your vehicle.
-Recognize that carjacking can occur anytime, anywhere in any neighborhood. Lock your doors when inside.
Alertness - Be Alert To Potential Dangers
-Exercise caution when people approach your vehicle requesting directions, change, or giving out flyers.
-When stopping in traffic, leave enough distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you so you can pull away quickly if needed.
-Be alert when approaching drive-up automated teller machines.
Avoidance - You Will Be Safer If You Avoid Certain Situations
-Don't get out of your vehicle if you witness suspicious circumstances. Drive away and call the police if necessary.
-Don't drive without locking your doors.
-Avoid using ATM's at night, especially if you see people loitering nearby.
-Never leave the keys in the ignition or the vehicle running for any reason.
-Never leave small children unattended in your vehicle.
-Avoid parking in secluded, poorly lit areas.
-Consider installation of an alarm system. Audible alarms could prevent your vehicle from being broken into or stolen.
-Keep all valuables out of sight when parking your vehicle.
-When having your vehicle serviced, or cleaned, remove your house keys from the key ring.
Actions - Certain Actions Will Help Keep You Safe
-If someone demands your car keys, don't resist. Nothing is more valuable than your life.
-Try to keep a cellular phone accessible when driving.
-Keep a pen and notebook accessible in your vehicle to write down important information about suspicious circumstances.
-In case of a vehicle breakdown, call the police for help and use great caution when approached by unknown individuals. -Place a "CALL POLICE" sign in your back window.
CHHA Incidents Recently Reported By KCMO Police
The Kansas City MO Police Department has released reports on two incidents that occurred toward the last of May. Both incidents were near the subdivision's south entrance:
5-27-2017 Vandalism, use of firearm, truck window, 6600 block of N. Charleston Dr., Report #:170048861
5-31-2017 Non-Aggravated Assault - Domestic, firearm used, 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr., Report #:170049386
5-27-2017 Vandalism, use of firearm, truck window, 6600 block of N. Charleston Dr., Report #:170048861
5-31-2017 Non-Aggravated Assault - Domestic, firearm used, 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr., Report #:170049386
Theft Reported On March 21, 2017
A theft of 30 gal. of gasoline from a truck parked in the driveway of a home in the 5300 block of NE 67th Ct. occurred on Sunday morning (March 19th) at approximately 3:30 am. and a police report was filed on the evening of March 21, 2017.
Theft - STEALING Mar 19, 2017 around 3:30 am.
5300 Block NE 67 CT
Description: Time: 03:30
Description: PCS-Stealing OTHER (Fuel)
Case No.: 170020204
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Theft - STEALING Mar 19, 2017 around 3:30 am.
5300 Block NE 67 CT
Description: Time: 03:30
Description: PCS-Stealing OTHER (Fuel)
Case No.: 170020204
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Four Incidents in the Month of January 2017
Given an increased incidence of crime within our subdivision, the Safety & Security Committee along with members of our community feel it is time to meet and become more organized in our efforts to ensure a safe neighborhood. Please join your neighbors at our next Board meeting on January 31, 2017 at 7:00 pm. at the Shoal Creek Patrol Station and provide your input and willingness to become involved.
4 incidents have occurred within the subdivision during the month of January 2017:
Jan 2, 2017 around 11 AM
Time: 11:55
Assault - NON Aggravated Assault
6900 Block N DENVER AV
Description:
Description: DV-NON AGG Assault
Incident ID: 787483450
Case No.: 170000329
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Jan 9, 2017 around 3 PM
Time: 15:33
Theft - FRAUD
6700 Block N CHARLESTON DR
Description:
Description: FRA-Stealing thru Deceit (scams/con games)
Incident ID: 788465647
Case No.:170002131
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Jan 9, 2017 around 4 PM
Time: 20:50
Breaking & Entering – Burglary Residence
5300 Block NE 68 TERRACE
Description:
Description: PCS-Burglary Residence - Occupied
Incident ID:790122664
Case No.:170002233
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Jan 17, 2017 around 8 PM
Time: 20:15
Theft - STEAL ACC
6700 Block N CHARLESTON DR
Description:
Description: PCS-Stealing ACC
Incident ID:789502378
Case No.:170004211
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
4 incidents have occurred within the subdivision during the month of January 2017:
Jan 2, 2017 around 11 AM
Time: 11:55
Assault - NON Aggravated Assault
6900 Block N DENVER AV
Description:
Description: DV-NON AGG Assault
Incident ID: 787483450
Case No.: 170000329
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Jan 9, 2017 around 3 PM
Time: 15:33
Theft - FRAUD
6700 Block N CHARLESTON DR
Description:
Description: FRA-Stealing thru Deceit (scams/con games)
Incident ID: 788465647
Case No.:170002131
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Jan 9, 2017 around 4 PM
Time: 20:50
Breaking & Entering – Burglary Residence
5300 Block NE 68 TERRACE
Description:
Description: PCS-Burglary Residence - Occupied
Incident ID:790122664
Case No.:170002233
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Jan 17, 2017 around 8 PM
Time: 20:15
Theft - STEAL ACC
6700 Block N CHARLESTON DR
Description:
Description: PCS-Stealing ACC
Incident ID:789502378
Case No.:170004211
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Residence Burglary - Jan. 9, 2017
One of our neighbors in the 5300 block of NE 68th Terr. came home last night to find the front door and garage door open. Police were called and it appeared the intruder(s) forced their way in thru the front door, gathered up items and exited through the garage door. Thousands of dollars of merchandise including electronics, computers, tools, bicycle and lawnmower were taken.
If any neighbors living within the 5100 to 5300 blocks of NE 68th Terr. or neighbors living near the intersection of N. Charleston Dr. & NE 68th Terr. or neighbors in the 6800 block of N. Hardesty Ave. saw any suspicious activity, please personal message me and I will pass information on to the police dept. If any residents in the above mentioned areas have video cameras pointed toward the street that record activity, I would encourage you to review the footage between 1:30 - 5:00 pm. for January 9th and let me know it captures vehicles moving about.
As always, the Safety & Security Committee encourages residents to be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the KCMO Police Dept. by calling 9-1-1.
If any neighbors living within the 5100 to 5300 blocks of NE 68th Terr. or neighbors living near the intersection of N. Charleston Dr. & NE 68th Terr. or neighbors in the 6800 block of N. Hardesty Ave. saw any suspicious activity, please personal message me and I will pass information on to the police dept. If any residents in the above mentioned areas have video cameras pointed toward the street that record activity, I would encourage you to review the footage between 1:30 - 5:00 pm. for January 9th and let me know it captures vehicles moving about.
As always, the Safety & Security Committee encourages residents to be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the KCMO Police Dept. by calling 9-1-1.
Domestic Assault Reported
Sorry to have to report the following that occurred yesterday (Jan. 2, 2017):
Assault - NON AGG DV
6900 Block N DENVER AVE
Jan 2, 2017 around 11 AM
Description: Time: 11:55
Description: DV-NON AGG Assault
Incident ID: 787483450
Case No.: 170000329
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Assault - NON AGG DV
6900 Block N DENVER AVE
Jan 2, 2017 around 11 AM
Description: Time: 11:55
Description: DV-NON AGG Assault
Incident ID: 787483450
Case No.: 170000329
Agency: Kansas City Police Department
Five Thefts From Vehicles On Same Day Reported
Five incidents on the same day (July 9, 2016) were reported by residents that happened in the 6600 (1),6700 (1), 6800 (2) and 6900 (1) blocks of Charleston Dr. within our subdivision. All were thefts from automobiles. The Carriage Hill neighborhood had four reported on July 9th.
Police suggest, if possible, that residents park their vehicles in the garage. If it is not possible, they suggest that you do not keep any valuables in a vehicle parked outside. Always keep such vehicles locked. Outside lighting may serve as a deterrent. If autos will always be parked outside, consider purchasing a wireless camera system. Another option would be a wireless driveway alarm and the transmitter placed on the vehicle dash and the receiver on your nightstand to alert you of movement near your vehicle.
Police suggest, if possible, that residents park their vehicles in the garage. If it is not possible, they suggest that you do not keep any valuables in a vehicle parked outside. Always keep such vehicles locked. Outside lighting may serve as a deterrent. If autos will always be parked outside, consider purchasing a wireless camera system. Another option would be a wireless driveway alarm and the transmitter placed on the vehicle dash and the receiver on your nightstand to alert you of movement near your vehicle.
School Is Out And Children Are Playing
Just a reminder to residents that there is an increased presence of children playing outside and walking to our pool this time of year. Please drive slowly in our neighborhood and be on the watch for pedestrians of all ages.
Please observe the 25 mph speed limit within our neighborhood.
Your Charleston Harbor Homes Association Safety Committee & Board of Directors thank you for your cooperation.
Please observe the 25 mph speed limit within our neighborhood.
Your Charleston Harbor Homes Association Safety Committee & Board of Directors thank you for your cooperation.
Safety Railing At Waterfall Completed - April 19, 2016
The Deck Pro company finished the installation of the safety railing at our waterfall that flows into White Rock Lake.
It's a needed addition as that area never had any safety precautions other than a tattered danger sign nailed to a tree.
This is another example of your Charleston Harbor Homes Association Board of Directors working to improve the infrastructure of the common areas and our neighborhood.
It's a needed addition as that area never had any safety precautions other than a tattered danger sign nailed to a tree.
This is another example of your Charleston Harbor Homes Association Board of Directors working to improve the infrastructure of the common areas and our neighborhood.
Springtime Crime Tips
As spring wears on we find ourselves out enjoying the weather and become a lot more mobile, both on foot and in our vehicles. So with that I would like to remind the residents of Shoal Creek of the below listed tips in regard to your vehicle.
Vehicle Tips
1) Always lock your vehicle with the windows rolled up. Thieves want the easy target and the less effort the better
2) Don't leave items in plain view. Take the temptation away from would be thieves.
3) Know when and where to place valuables in your trunk.
4) If you have an anti-theft device use it, Alarms and steering wheel locks
5) Don't leave your keys in an unoccupied- ticket able on top of that.
6) Remove GPS and other indicators or electronics. Take "Home" out of your GPS, the thief could determine where you live.
7) Secure your license plates.
8) Park in a well lite area- Move your car closer if you run into nightfall.
9) Remove that spare change. Yes a window will be broken for it.
10) Report incidents immediately. Early warning gives police the advantage.
Crime Tips for the walker/runner
1) When possible use the buddy system not just for safety from crime but also should you become injured while running.
2) Share your walk/run route with others and they should know your ETA of return.
3) Be Smart, limit the use of those ear buds and other devices that hamper your attention.
4) Stay to established trails and routes but vary your times and routine, but avoid dark
5) If you drive somewhere to run or walk be sure to take your cellphone and car key.
6) Arm yourself with pepper spray or a light impact weapon.
7) The high visibility clothing is not just a fashion statement but helps others see you.
8) Have plenty of water and know your limitations.
Be Safe
Community Interaction Officer Rick Cartwright - Shoal Creek Patrol Division
Vehicle Tips
1) Always lock your vehicle with the windows rolled up. Thieves want the easy target and the less effort the better
2) Don't leave items in plain view. Take the temptation away from would be thieves.
3) Know when and where to place valuables in your trunk.
4) If you have an anti-theft device use it, Alarms and steering wheel locks
5) Don't leave your keys in an unoccupied- ticket able on top of that.
6) Remove GPS and other indicators or electronics. Take "Home" out of your GPS, the thief could determine where you live.
7) Secure your license plates.
8) Park in a well lite area- Move your car closer if you run into nightfall.
9) Remove that spare change. Yes a window will be broken for it.
10) Report incidents immediately. Early warning gives police the advantage.
Crime Tips for the walker/runner
1) When possible use the buddy system not just for safety from crime but also should you become injured while running.
2) Share your walk/run route with others and they should know your ETA of return.
3) Be Smart, limit the use of those ear buds and other devices that hamper your attention.
4) Stay to established trails and routes but vary your times and routine, but avoid dark
5) If you drive somewhere to run or walk be sure to take your cellphone and car key.
6) Arm yourself with pepper spray or a light impact weapon.
7) The high visibility clothing is not just a fashion statement but helps others see you.
8) Have plenty of water and know your limitations.
Be Safe
Community Interaction Officer Rick Cartwright - Shoal Creek Patrol Division
Crime Watch Report For March 2016
The month of March was quiet, except for one incident of Identity Theft reported to the KCMO Police Dept. on March 21st. The incident occurred at 6928 N. Denver Ave.
Crime Watch Incident Report For February 2016 - 0 Incidents
Spring 2016 And Activating A Neighborhood Watch Program
We're right around the corner and before you know it spring will be at our door step. With the change of the season your sure to find yourself outside more often but so is the opportunity for crime, large and small. While the large crimes like those that make the nightly news is tragic to see and hear it's the small ones, like property crimes that are more likely to affect the resident. In addition those property crimes are costly and time consuming to recover from and if nothing else just irritating.
Now is a great time to bring your neighborhood watch up to speed and revamp your awareness of what needs to be done around your own home and your neighborhood to insure your safety. I would like to repeat topics I have mentioned before about setting up a successful neighborhood watch.
Neighborhood watches are based on the following principles:
In a nutshell retired Police Officer James Shriever said it best.
"Remember, there is no “law” per say as to how neighborhood watches are to be set up.
My advice is be creative and set up a program that will engage your community and don’t be afraid to change tactics if they are not achieving the desired results. Also stress, neighborhood watch is a reporting tool. Neighborhood Watches are not intended to replace the police nor confront individuals".
We all want our communities to be safe, Remember- "The police do not solve crimes, communities do". It makes sense we can't bring the bad to justice if we cant have your participation.
Be Safe
Charleston Harbor Subdivision's Community Interaction Officer --- MPO Rick Cartwright, Shoal Creek Patrol Division
Now is a great time to bring your neighborhood watch up to speed and revamp your awareness of what needs to be done around your own home and your neighborhood to insure your safety. I would like to repeat topics I have mentioned before about setting up a successful neighborhood watch.
Neighborhood watches are based on the following principles:
- Empowering the community with information that is useful and bring awareness to crime in their neighborhoods. This starts one on one with your neighbor and sharing information.
- Engaging the neighborhood to look out for yourself and your neighborhood.(residents know better than anybody of who belongs or does not in neighborhoods as well as what is suspicious and what is not.
- Reporting suspicious activity to police in a timely manner through 911 if it's an emergency and through the non-emergency number. Be sure to give accurate information and as much as possible without endangering yourself.
- Communication within the neighbors (set up an e-mail, phone paging system or social media watch pages to notify all in the neighborhood about crimes or suspicious activity)
- Please keep in mind that electronic communications have no personality and if not careful, many post can appear as being biased or harassing. Also be cautious as to what you post. Even “closed” groups are not private and the info can be easily obtained by an attorney.
- Your neighborhood speaks for itself. Well maintained homes and common areas say a lot to any visitor, even the potential bad guy who is out shopping for his next target.
- Posting neighborhood watch signs without active neighborhood participation says nothing and does not stop crime, active residents do.
- More times than not the signs are there for you that the commitment that is in place and makes the commitment that the neighborhood is unified in reporting and prosecuting crime.
In a nutshell retired Police Officer James Shriever said it best.
"Remember, there is no “law” per say as to how neighborhood watches are to be set up.
My advice is be creative and set up a program that will engage your community and don’t be afraid to change tactics if they are not achieving the desired results. Also stress, neighborhood watch is a reporting tool. Neighborhood Watches are not intended to replace the police nor confront individuals".
We all want our communities to be safe, Remember- "The police do not solve crimes, communities do". It makes sense we can't bring the bad to justice if we cant have your participation.
Be Safe
Charleston Harbor Subdivision's Community Interaction Officer --- MPO Rick Cartwright, Shoal Creek Patrol Division
Crime Watch Incident Report for Jan. 2016
Happy 2016 to all residents in the Charleston Harbor subdivision. With the new year comes a message of a theft in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Dr. on Jan. 6th and reported at 3:15 pm.
It is a reminder for each of us to stay vigilant and should we observe any suspicious or criminal activity immediately call 9-1-1 and report your concern. Our Shoal Creek Patrol Station has a limited number of officers and they greatly rely on residents to be the "eyes and ears" of the neighborhood.
Stay safe and watch out for one another in 2016.
It is a reminder for each of us to stay vigilant and should we observe any suspicious or criminal activity immediately call 9-1-1 and report your concern. Our Shoal Creek Patrol Station has a limited number of officers and they greatly rely on residents to be the "eyes and ears" of the neighborhood.
Stay safe and watch out for one another in 2016.
Crime Watch Incident Report for Dec. 2015 - 0 Incidents
Crime Watch Incident Report for Nov. 2015 - 0 Incidents
Crime Watch Incident Report for Oct. 1 - Oct. 31, 2015
The following incidents have occurred within our subdivision:
Oct. 8, 2015 Residence Burglary/Auto Theft @ 1:00 am. 7000 block of N. Denver Ave.
Oct. 10, 2015 Theft at Entrance @ 2:50 pm. N. Charleston Dr. and NE Pleasant Valley Rd.
Oct. 30, 2015 Welfare Check - Death @ 3:15 pm. 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave.
Oct. 8, 2015 Residence Burglary/Auto Theft @ 1:00 am. 7000 block of N. Denver Ave.
Oct. 10, 2015 Theft at Entrance @ 2:50 pm. N. Charleston Dr. and NE Pleasant Valley Rd.
Oct. 30, 2015 Welfare Check - Death @ 3:15 pm. 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave.
Crime Watch Incident Report for Aug. 1 - Sept. 30, 2015
Period: August 1 – September 30, 2015
The following incidents have occurred within our subdivision:
Aug. 07, 2015 Theft Stealing From Auto @ 12:52 am. 5300 block of NE 67th Ct.
Aug. 17, 2015 DV-Non Aggravated Assault @ 9:51 pm. 6900 block of N. Denver Ave.
Aug. 28, 2015 Theft Stealing – South Entrance@3:52 pm. 5200 block of NE Pleasant Valley Rd.
The following incidents have occurred within our subdivision:
Aug. 07, 2015 Theft Stealing From Auto @ 12:52 am. 5300 block of NE 67th Ct.
Aug. 17, 2015 DV-Non Aggravated Assault @ 9:51 pm. 6900 block of N. Denver Ave.
Aug. 28, 2015 Theft Stealing – South Entrance@3:52 pm. 5200 block of NE Pleasant Valley Rd.
Speeding Within Our Neighborhood - Aug. 14, 2015
With summer winding down and our children returning to school, this is a good time to revisit the issue of driving safely and obeying the speed limits within the Charleston Harbor subdivision. Recently some residents have observed drivers exceeding the 25 mile per hour speed limit and we urge everyone to obey the posted speed limit.
Your Charleston Harbor Safety & Security Committee asks residents to be proactive and write down information when you see violations of the speed limit within our subdivision. If possible, please try to make a notation of the make and color of the vehicle, license plate number (if possible), male or female driver, date and time of day. You can forward the information by private message to me or via email to chhawebmaster@yahoo.com
The Traffic Complaints Division of the Kansas City MO. Police Department has been contacted and will be evaluating options for our neighborhood. We have suggested at least two additional speed limit signs (at NE 71st Terr. entrance and near 6830 N. Charleston Dr.-vacant lot) and possible speed monitoring via a police traffic unit or radar speed trailer unit.
We will keep neighbors informed of any actions and feedback.
Your Charleston Harbor Safety & Security Committee asks residents to be proactive and write down information when you see violations of the speed limit within our subdivision. If possible, please try to make a notation of the make and color of the vehicle, license plate number (if possible), male or female driver, date and time of day. You can forward the information by private message to me or via email to chhawebmaster@yahoo.com
The Traffic Complaints Division of the Kansas City MO. Police Department has been contacted and will be evaluating options for our neighborhood. We have suggested at least two additional speed limit signs (at NE 71st Terr. entrance and near 6830 N. Charleston Dr.-vacant lot) and possible speed monitoring via a police traffic unit or radar speed trailer unit.
We will keep neighbors informed of any actions and feedback.
Crime Watch Incident Report For July 2015 - 0 Incidents
Crime Watch Incident Report For June 2015 - 0 Incidents
Reminder: Fireworks Are Illegal Within Kansas City - June 22, 2015
From Sarah Boyd of the Kansas City Police Department comes this reminder:
With the Fourth of July holiday approaching please remember it is illegal to use, possess or sell fireworks in Kansas City, Mo.
Residents can call our non-emergency number at 234-5111 to report violators. We get a lot of calls about fireworks this time of year, so officers will respond as available.
With the Fourth of July holiday approaching please remember it is illegal to use, possess or sell fireworks in Kansas City, Mo.
Residents can call our non-emergency number at 234-5111 to report violators. We get a lot of calls about fireworks this time of year, so officers will respond as available.
Dogs and Safety In Our Neighborhood - June 13, 2015
Just a heads up for Charleston Harbor homeowners/residents who have dogs. A recent dog bite incident within our subdivision necessitates a review of a KCMO City Ordinance 14-3 also known as the leash law. The ordinance prohibits dogs from roaming free in public areas. Dogs can, of course, roam free on its owner's property, but ONLY IF CONFINED by a leash, fence, or electronic collar of some sort. If an owner has their dog unleashed and it runs from the property and attacks someone there could be legal and financial consequences. Please Be A Responsible Dog Owner.
Missouri Revised Statutes section 273.036 imposes strict liability on dog owners for dog bites, whether or not their dogs ever bit anyone in the past. In other words, Kansas City dogs do not get "one free bite." This law applies to both owners and possessors of the dog, so dog walkers can be held liable too. Anyone found liable under this statute must compensate the plaintiff for economic and non-economic damages and may be fined up to $1,000.
Missouri Revised Statute section 273.100 provides that government agents may impound any dog found roaming free and unattended at the Kansas City Animal Shelter.
The negligence per se doctrine asserts that anyone who breaks the law can be liable for any injuries that result from the law breaking activity (so long as the injury is of the type the law was meant to prevent). Violation of KCMO City Ordinance 14-3 combined with the negligence per se doctrine means that the dog's owner is presumed to be negligent whenever his or her dog is allowed off leash and attacks someone.
Each dog living within the city limits of Kansas City, Mo., must have a current City license displayed on its collar at all times. This assists in monitoring and controlling the pet population. A City license also makes it easier for you to be contacted if your pet is impounded or running loose.
Each household may own four domestic animals (dogs, cats and ferrets) in any combination.
Missouri Revised Statutes section 273.036 imposes strict liability on dog owners for dog bites, whether or not their dogs ever bit anyone in the past. In other words, Kansas City dogs do not get "one free bite." This law applies to both owners and possessors of the dog, so dog walkers can be held liable too. Anyone found liable under this statute must compensate the plaintiff for economic and non-economic damages and may be fined up to $1,000.
Missouri Revised Statute section 273.100 provides that government agents may impound any dog found roaming free and unattended at the Kansas City Animal Shelter.
The negligence per se doctrine asserts that anyone who breaks the law can be liable for any injuries that result from the law breaking activity (so long as the injury is of the type the law was meant to prevent). Violation of KCMO City Ordinance 14-3 combined with the negligence per se doctrine means that the dog's owner is presumed to be negligent whenever his or her dog is allowed off leash and attacks someone.
Each dog living within the city limits of Kansas City, Mo., must have a current City license displayed on its collar at all times. This assists in monitoring and controlling the pet population. A City license also makes it easier for you to be contacted if your pet is impounded or running loose.
Each household may own four domestic animals (dogs, cats and ferrets) in any combination.
Summer Curfew Reminders - June 4, 2015
From Shoal Creek Community Interaction Officer, Rick Cartwright...
Now that were into summer I thought I would make a friendly reminder in regard to the Summer Curfew Ordinance.
Both minors and parents need to share the responsibility in regard to the curfew but its the parents that could receive up to a $500 fine for a violation of the ordinance.
Summer Curfew Reminder
The summer curfews hours are in effect. Ordinance 50-237 - Citywide curfew for person under 18 years of age
• 10 p.m. — 15 years of age and under
• 11 p.m. — 16 and 17 years of age Ordinance 50-238 - Entertainment districts; extended curfew for persons under 18 years of age
• 9 p.m. — 17 years of age and under in the 18th & Vine District, Central Business District, Country Club Plaza, Westport Shopping District and Zona Rosa Shopping District Areas
All curfews are enforceable until 6 a.m. the following day. The ordinance is simply there to make our children and communities safe. Your cooperation is appreciated.
For more details go to the city web site at www.kcmo.gov/curfew.
Now that were into summer I thought I would make a friendly reminder in regard to the Summer Curfew Ordinance.
Both minors and parents need to share the responsibility in regard to the curfew but its the parents that could receive up to a $500 fine for a violation of the ordinance.
Summer Curfew Reminder
The summer curfews hours are in effect. Ordinance 50-237 - Citywide curfew for person under 18 years of age
• 10 p.m. — 15 years of age and under
• 11 p.m. — 16 and 17 years of age Ordinance 50-238 - Entertainment districts; extended curfew for persons under 18 years of age
• 9 p.m. — 17 years of age and under in the 18th & Vine District, Central Business District, Country Club Plaza, Westport Shopping District and Zona Rosa Shopping District Areas
All curfews are enforceable until 6 a.m. the following day. The ordinance is simply there to make our children and communities safe. Your cooperation is appreciated.
For more details go to the city web site at www.kcmo.gov/curfew.
Two Fraud-Identity Theft Reports For May 2015
The most recent crime report data for our area indicates
that two of our Charleston Harbor neighbors filed Fraud-IdentityTheft reports
with KCMO Police. One report was on May 14 and occurred in the 6800 block of N.
Hardesty Ave. The other incident report was on May 18th and in the 7000 block
of N. Hardesty Ave.
KCMO Police suggest that if Charleston Harbor homeowners or residents discover theft of identity information, they can file an incident report by contacting the Economic Crimes Section of the KCMO Police Dept. (816) 234-5261 as that unit handles complaints about identity theft, credit card and check fraud, telemarketing rip-offs and other money related crimes.
Financial Crime Victim Information
Being a victim of a financial based crime can be a troubling time for a victim. If you have discovered that you are the victim of a financial crime there are several things that you need to do immediately.
Notify the bank, or financial institution, where the affected account is located. The financial institutions have procedures for victims to follow. This can include completing affidavits disputing the fraudulent transactions, closing the affected account, and opening a new account.
Notify the Police Department. Based on the type of financial transactions that have occurred the Clerk, or Officer, will determine the exact classification of Police report that will be completed.
Obtain a copy of your credit report. Many times when a financial victim discovers they have a fraudulent transaction on an account they will look further into their finances and they reveal other transactions, or even financial accounts, have been conducted or created.
If fraudulent accounts are discovered notify the financial institutions where these accounts originated.
Document everything. Keep accurate records of who you talk to, when you talk to them, and the details of the conversation.
Keep copies of all bank statements, checks, credit card receipts, bills and invoices, and letters from creditors.
Remain diligent.
KCMO Police suggest that if Charleston Harbor homeowners or residents discover theft of identity information, they can file an incident report by contacting the Economic Crimes Section of the KCMO Police Dept. (816) 234-5261 as that unit handles complaints about identity theft, credit card and check fraud, telemarketing rip-offs and other money related crimes.
Financial Crime Victim Information
Being a victim of a financial based crime can be a troubling time for a victim. If you have discovered that you are the victim of a financial crime there are several things that you need to do immediately.
Notify the bank, or financial institution, where the affected account is located. The financial institutions have procedures for victims to follow. This can include completing affidavits disputing the fraudulent transactions, closing the affected account, and opening a new account.
Notify the Police Department. Based on the type of financial transactions that have occurred the Clerk, or Officer, will determine the exact classification of Police report that will be completed.
Obtain a copy of your credit report. Many times when a financial victim discovers they have a fraudulent transaction on an account they will look further into their finances and they reveal other transactions, or even financial accounts, have been conducted or created.
If fraudulent accounts are discovered notify the financial institutions where these accounts originated.
Document everything. Keep accurate records of who you talk to, when you talk to them, and the details of the conversation.
Keep copies of all bank statements, checks, credit card receipts, bills and invoices, and letters from creditors.
Remain diligent.
Getting Ready For Summer...Security Suggestions - May 14, 2015
Before you know it summer will be upon us. Vacations, hot days and water sports and with all of these comes inherit risk. Before you venture out on that long awaited vacation, check out the following tips in regard to securing your home. Nothing beats the peace of mind knowing that your place is well secured.
Have good locks on all the doors and windows. Have a security alarm system, us it. Be well versed in the operation and use the latest technology.
Never leave your house key hidden outside a doormat, flower pot or the ledge of a door. It’s the first place they look.
Give your house that “lived in look”, using timers for lights and radios (for noise). Invite your close neighbor to park a car there or jockey around the car you left behind. Even a mowed lawn would be a great trade with your neighbor to further enhance that lived in look.
Have mail and newspapers picked up by a trusted neighbor or have it stopped.
Leave your trip plans with a neighbor or relative including your cell phone number.
If there was ever a time for a great neighborhood watch relationship, this is it. You watch mine and I’ll watch yours when you go on vacation. Being a great neighbor has its benefits and you can return the favor.
Call Shoal Creek station and we will be happy to make out an extra patrol request in regard to your vacation plans. We won’t be shaking any doors but rather your house is on our radar as the resident being out of town.
MPO Rick Cartwright, Shoal Creek Patrol Station
Have good locks on all the doors and windows. Have a security alarm system, us it. Be well versed in the operation and use the latest technology.
Never leave your house key hidden outside a doormat, flower pot or the ledge of a door. It’s the first place they look.
Give your house that “lived in look”, using timers for lights and radios (for noise). Invite your close neighbor to park a car there or jockey around the car you left behind. Even a mowed lawn would be a great trade with your neighbor to further enhance that lived in look.
Have mail and newspapers picked up by a trusted neighbor or have it stopped.
Leave your trip plans with a neighbor or relative including your cell phone number.
If there was ever a time for a great neighborhood watch relationship, this is it. You watch mine and I’ll watch yours when you go on vacation. Being a great neighbor has its benefits and you can return the favor.
Call Shoal Creek station and we will be happy to make out an extra patrol request in regard to your vacation plans. We won’t be shaking any doors but rather your house is on our radar as the resident being out of town.
MPO Rick Cartwright, Shoal Creek Patrol Station
Crime Watch Report For April 2015 - O Incidents
Crime Watch Report For March 2015 - 0 Incidents
From Your HOA Safety & Security Committee - Please Drive Safely In Our Neighborhood (March 2, 2015)
Your HOA Safety & Security Committee reminds everyone to drive safely and obey the 25 mph speed limit within Charleston Harbor. And please practice caution especially in winter weather when streets can become icy and slick.
Over the weekend (Feb. 27-28, 2015) our neighbors in the 6700-6800 block of N. Charleston Drive had their community mailbox heavily damaged. If anyone witnessed the event or has noticed front end damage to an area vehicle, please contact the CHHA Board. Most likely the mailbox will need to be replaced, preferably by the responsible party. Otherwise the cost will have to come from the HOA budget.
Over the weekend (Feb. 27-28, 2015) our neighbors in the 6700-6800 block of N. Charleston Drive had their community mailbox heavily damaged. If anyone witnessed the event or has noticed front end damage to an area vehicle, please contact the CHHA Board. Most likely the mailbox will need to be replaced, preferably by the responsible party. Otherwise the cost will have to come from the HOA budget.
Crime Watch Report For February 2015
Received a Crime Report update that another incident report was filed with the KCMO Police Dept. on Friday (Feb. 6, 2015) afternoon at 1:50 pm.
A BURGLARY - BREAKING & Entering occurred in the 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave.
If anyone saw anything suspicious in that area or may have information about the incident, please contact the Shoal Creek Patrol Division at 816-413-3400.
Neighbors in that vicinity may want to talk with one another to get more specific information about the incident.
A BURGLARY - BREAKING & Entering occurred in the 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave.
If anyone saw anything suspicious in that area or may have information about the incident, please contact the Shoal Creek Patrol Division at 816-413-3400.
Neighbors in that vicinity may want to talk with one another to get more specific information about the incident.
Crime Watch Reprt For January 2015 - 0 Incidents
Home Security / Kids And Guns
From Rick Cartwright of the KCMO Police Dept. Shoal Creek Patrol...
When it comes to Home Security the issue of firearms and their place in the home always arises. With that in mind the quote “With great power comes great responsibility” cannot be overemphasized. We all want to protect our families from intruders and that is commonly achieved by having firearms in the house as a matter of protection. Without question the responsibility of firearms safety rest directly on the shoulders of the homeowner. Keeping and maintaining a firearm in the home is a personal decision and one that must be taking very seriously.
Lately tragic results have not only happened here in the metro area but also nationwide involving firearms and children. While some of that was criminal in nature, some were nothing more than tragic accidents. Those we can do something about. When appropriate talk to your children about firearms, what to do should they come across a gun and not only within their own home but of homes they may visit. This includes their friends and relatives. Kids are curious by nature and come across firearms in the home by chance and sometimes intentionally. At a minimum all children should know that if they come across a firearm to leave it alone and tell an adult. As adults we have an obligation to make sure that all firearms are unloaded, separated from ammunition, secured and rendered safe. Nothing is more senseless to have such a weapon for home protection only to be a danger to those that live there.
As I stated earlier having a firearm is a personal choice but before that ask yourself have you made home security improvements (target hardening), for your home such as burglar resistant doors and windows, sufficient locks, adequate lighting and your neighborhood watch up to speed. A combination of all these factors will give you peace of mind.
Need more information, checkout www.projectchildsafe.org . You can also visit my station during my working hours for a handout and a firearm locking device or catch me at a community event. I have a supply of cable locks for any gun owner in need. With common sense and using tools such as a cable lock and a gun safe, firearm safety can be achieved.
When it comes to Home Security the issue of firearms and their place in the home always arises. With that in mind the quote “With great power comes great responsibility” cannot be overemphasized. We all want to protect our families from intruders and that is commonly achieved by having firearms in the house as a matter of protection. Without question the responsibility of firearms safety rest directly on the shoulders of the homeowner. Keeping and maintaining a firearm in the home is a personal decision and one that must be taking very seriously.
Lately tragic results have not only happened here in the metro area but also nationwide involving firearms and children. While some of that was criminal in nature, some were nothing more than tragic accidents. Those we can do something about. When appropriate talk to your children about firearms, what to do should they come across a gun and not only within their own home but of homes they may visit. This includes their friends and relatives. Kids are curious by nature and come across firearms in the home by chance and sometimes intentionally. At a minimum all children should know that if they come across a firearm to leave it alone and tell an adult. As adults we have an obligation to make sure that all firearms are unloaded, separated from ammunition, secured and rendered safe. Nothing is more senseless to have such a weapon for home protection only to be a danger to those that live there.
As I stated earlier having a firearm is a personal choice but before that ask yourself have you made home security improvements (target hardening), for your home such as burglar resistant doors and windows, sufficient locks, adequate lighting and your neighborhood watch up to speed. A combination of all these factors will give you peace of mind.
Need more information, checkout www.projectchildsafe.org . You can also visit my station during my working hours for a handout and a firearm locking device or catch me at a community event. I have a supply of cable locks for any gun owner in need. With common sense and using tools such as a cable lock and a gun safe, firearm safety can be achieved.
Speeding Or Suspected Drug Activity In Your Neighborhood - Jan. 27, 2015
From Sarah Boyd with the Kansas City MO Police Dept. comes new ways to contact police about the above situations:
We've added new features to our web site so you can report suspected drug activity and traffic complaints to officers online. If you suspect there's a drug house or other location in your neighborhood where drugs are bought, sold or used, please fill out the form here: http://kcmo.gov/police/suspected-narcoti.... This form can be submitted anonymously.
If you're concerned about speeders in your area, drivers constantly disregarding a sign or signal or similar issues, please fill out the traffic complaint form here: http://kcmo.gov/police/traffic-complaint.... You must provide contact information with this form because an officer will follow up with you.
We've added new features to our web site so you can report suspected drug activity and traffic complaints to officers online. If you suspect there's a drug house or other location in your neighborhood where drugs are bought, sold or used, please fill out the form here: http://kcmo.gov/police/suspected-narcoti.... This form can be submitted anonymously.
If you're concerned about speeders in your area, drivers constantly disregarding a sign or signal or similar issues, please fill out the traffic complaint form here: http://kcmo.gov/police/traffic-complaint.... You must provide contact information with this form because an officer will follow up with you.
Running Autos Being Stolen In The Northland - Jan. 22, 2015
From Rick Cartwright (KCPD) comes this notice:
Recently the Shoal Creek Division as well as other divisions throughout the city have been plagued with reports of stolen or attempted stolen vehicles from the driveways of residents. The sad thing is in many of these cases warm vehicles are being left for the thief making it easy and comfortable for them to drive off. With the recent cold weather we have had a rash of stolen vehicles. I understand that nobody likes to drive away in a car not warmed up yet and the windshield still a blur. But according to my cime analyst as of last tuesday morning, there were 50 (exactly) taken or attempted stolen north of the river. Of the 50, 26 were running. Three more had keys in the car but the victim didn’t say it was turned on. 13 were taken by unknown means. The other 8 were taken through fraud, or theft of the keys.
As miserable as it may seem at times please do not leave your vehicle unattended while warming up. It is also a city ordinance offense for doing such and you are subject to a ticket. In many of these cases the vehicles are being recovered shortly thereafter which would indicate somebody was just looking for an easy steal while others are never recovered. But either way your out a car. Let's not make it easy for them. Grab your morning coffee and hangout where you can watch your car, then only you will be enjoying that morning commute.
Recently the Shoal Creek Division as well as other divisions throughout the city have been plagued with reports of stolen or attempted stolen vehicles from the driveways of residents. The sad thing is in many of these cases warm vehicles are being left for the thief making it easy and comfortable for them to drive off. With the recent cold weather we have had a rash of stolen vehicles. I understand that nobody likes to drive away in a car not warmed up yet and the windshield still a blur. But according to my cime analyst as of last tuesday morning, there were 50 (exactly) taken or attempted stolen north of the river. Of the 50, 26 were running. Three more had keys in the car but the victim didn’t say it was turned on. 13 were taken by unknown means. The other 8 were taken through fraud, or theft of the keys.
As miserable as it may seem at times please do not leave your vehicle unattended while warming up. It is also a city ordinance offense for doing such and you are subject to a ticket. In many of these cases the vehicles are being recovered shortly thereafter which would indicate somebody was just looking for an easy steal while others are never recovered. But either way your out a car. Let's not make it easy for them. Grab your morning coffee and hangout where you can watch your car, then only you will be enjoying that morning commute.
Holiday Season Safety And Security For Residents - Dec. 2014
We're well into the holiday season and I would like to share holiday safety tips along with others that you might feel useful should you be traveling or simply away from home at times this holiday season.
Your Home While Away
Put your outdoor and even some indoor lighting on a timer, give it that “someone’s there” look.
Employ a trusted neighbor or relative to look in on things, retrieve the mail and paper if you have not had them stopped.
Never advertise your vacation plans around the ears of strangers.
Don’t leave details on your answering machine or computer that you are away, a simple “ I am away right now”
Call your local police station, SCPD @ 816-413-3400 and well make out an extra patrol request. We won’t be shaking any doors but we
will drive by as time permits.
While Away
Keep your room key with you at all times. Even if you lost it you should have any electronic key re-keyed.
Close the door securely locked and use the locks as they were intended.
Should you hotel have a safe, use it, failure to do some will limit the liability on the part of the hotel.
Don’t invite strangers into your room, even if a person claims to be a hotel employee, verify it with the front desk.
Don’t’ draw attention to yourself by displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry
When returning to your room late at night becoming familiar with your surroundings and use only well lite areas
Take a minute and become familiar with your floor, like the exit, stairs, and fire suppression devices.
And just like home, if you see suspicious activity, notify the hotel or staff member but especially the police if it is a crime in progress.
Happy Holidays,
Rick Cartwright, Your Shoal Creek Patrol Community Interaction Officer
rick.cartwright@kcpd.org
Your Home While Away
Put your outdoor and even some indoor lighting on a timer, give it that “someone’s there” look.
Employ a trusted neighbor or relative to look in on things, retrieve the mail and paper if you have not had them stopped.
Never advertise your vacation plans around the ears of strangers.
Don’t leave details on your answering machine or computer that you are away, a simple “ I am away right now”
Call your local police station, SCPD @ 816-413-3400 and well make out an extra patrol request. We won’t be shaking any doors but we
will drive by as time permits.
While Away
Keep your room key with you at all times. Even if you lost it you should have any electronic key re-keyed.
Close the door securely locked and use the locks as they were intended.
Should you hotel have a safe, use it, failure to do some will limit the liability on the part of the hotel.
Don’t invite strangers into your room, even if a person claims to be a hotel employee, verify it with the front desk.
Don’t’ draw attention to yourself by displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry
When returning to your room late at night becoming familiar with your surroundings and use only well lite areas
Take a minute and become familiar with your floor, like the exit, stairs, and fire suppression devices.
And just like home, if you see suspicious activity, notify the hotel or staff member but especially the police if it is a crime in progress.
Happy Holidays,
Rick Cartwright, Your Shoal Creek Patrol Community Interaction Officer
rick.cartwright@kcpd.org
Crime Watch Report November 2014
Received a Crime Report update this morning. Another crime report was filed with the KCMO Police Dept. on Friday (Nov. 14) morning at 8:16 am.
A THEFT occurred in the 7000 block of N. Denver Ave.
If anyone saw anything suspicious in that area or may have information about the incident, please contact the Shoal Creek Patrol Division at 816-413-3400.
Neighbors in that vicinity may want to talk with one another to get more specific information about the incident.
A THEFT occurred in the 7000 block of N. Denver Ave.
If anyone saw anything suspicious in that area or may have information about the incident, please contact the Shoal Creek Patrol Division at 816-413-3400.
Neighbors in that vicinity may want to talk with one another to get more specific information about the incident.
Neighborhood Safety & Security is where we can bring to the attention of residents any safety and security issues or concerns that need to be addressed. Below are a list of incidents that have occurred within Charleston Harbor:
2-6-2015
Breaking & Entering (Residential Burglary) in the 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave. at 1:50 pm.
11-14-2014
Theft in the 7000 block of N. Denver Ave. at 8:16 am.
11-8-2014
Breaking & Entering (Residential Burglary) in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Dr. at 1:48 pm.
4-13-2014
Theft From Vehicle in the 5100 block of NE 71st PL.reported to KCMO Police at 8:40 pm.
3-11-2014
Stealing From Residence in the 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr. reported to KCMO Police at 1:22 pm.
9-24-2013
Aggravated Assault in the 7000 block of N. Hardesty Ave. reported to KCMO Police at 5:01 pm.
9-19-2013
Residence Burglary - Breaking & Entering in the 5100 block of NE 68th Terr. reported to KCMO Police at 8:38 am.
9-10-2013
Car windows shot out of 2 vehicles in the 6600 block of N. Charleston Dr. and the 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr. at approximately 4:00 am.
2-15-2013
A theft occurred in the 5100 block of NE 71st Place and was reported to police at 8:56 am.
1-23-2013
A theft occurred in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Drive and was reported to police at 2:59 pm.
11-19-2012
KCMO Police Dept. indicates a Residence Burglary on Nov. 19, 2012 in the 5400 block of NE 69th Terr. Just a reminder to keep a watch on your neighborhood activity during this holiday season and report any suspicious activity by calling 9-1-1.
It also appears that we have had some vandalism within Charleston Harbor in the past 1-2 weeks that resulted in a number of "For Sale" signs being removed from properties.
7-20-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Theft in the 6800 block of N. Hardesty Ave. at 11:14 am., the fraudulent use of a credit card.
7-11-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Stolen Auto in the 6700 block of N. Charleston Drive at 9:29 am.
6-19-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Stolen Auto in the 5300 block of NE 67th Court at 9:42 am.
6-17-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Stealing complaint was filed in the 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr. at 5:09 pm.
1-7-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a theft occurred in the 6900 block of N. Charleston Dr., the fraudulent use of a credit card.
11-8-2011
KCMO Police Dept. reports a theft occurred in the 6600 block of N. Charleston Dr., the fraudulent use of a credit card.
9-2-2011
KC Police Dept. reports that a theft from an auto occurred and was reported at approximately 2:45 am.in the 7000 block of N. Denver Ave.9-2-2011
KC Police Dept. reports that a theft from an auto occurred and was reported at approximately 6:52 am.in the 6900 block of N. Colorado Ave.
KCMO Police Dept. Community Liaison Officer Smith indicates that both victims said their vehicles were secure. The time frame for the thefts was most likely 10:15 pm on 9-1-2011 to 2:45 am on 9-2-2011. Both vehicles had the driver’s door open with no signs of forced entry. One vehicle was on the street and the other in the driveway. Items taken were tools, CB radio and a digital camera.
2-6-2015
Breaking & Entering (Residential Burglary) in the 7100 block of N. Quincy Ave. at 1:50 pm.
11-14-2014
Theft in the 7000 block of N. Denver Ave. at 8:16 am.
11-8-2014
Breaking & Entering (Residential Burglary) in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Dr. at 1:48 pm.
4-13-2014
Theft From Vehicle in the 5100 block of NE 71st PL.reported to KCMO Police at 8:40 pm.
3-11-2014
Stealing From Residence in the 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr. reported to KCMO Police at 1:22 pm.
9-24-2013
Aggravated Assault in the 7000 block of N. Hardesty Ave. reported to KCMO Police at 5:01 pm.
9-19-2013
Residence Burglary - Breaking & Entering in the 5100 block of NE 68th Terr. reported to KCMO Police at 8:38 am.
9-10-2013
Car windows shot out of 2 vehicles in the 6600 block of N. Charleston Dr. and the 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr. at approximately 4:00 am.
2-15-2013
A theft occurred in the 5100 block of NE 71st Place and was reported to police at 8:56 am.
1-23-2013
A theft occurred in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Drive and was reported to police at 2:59 pm.
11-19-2012
KCMO Police Dept. indicates a Residence Burglary on Nov. 19, 2012 in the 5400 block of NE 69th Terr. Just a reminder to keep a watch on your neighborhood activity during this holiday season and report any suspicious activity by calling 9-1-1.
It also appears that we have had some vandalism within Charleston Harbor in the past 1-2 weeks that resulted in a number of "For Sale" signs being removed from properties.
7-20-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Theft in the 6800 block of N. Hardesty Ave. at 11:14 am., the fraudulent use of a credit card.
7-11-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Stolen Auto in the 6700 block of N. Charleston Drive at 9:29 am.
6-19-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Stolen Auto in the 5300 block of NE 67th Court at 9:42 am.
6-17-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a Stealing complaint was filed in the 6700 block of N. Charleston Dr. at 5:09 pm.
1-7-2012
KCMO Police Dept. reports a theft occurred in the 6900 block of N. Charleston Dr., the fraudulent use of a credit card.
11-8-2011
KCMO Police Dept. reports a theft occurred in the 6600 block of N. Charleston Dr., the fraudulent use of a credit card.
9-2-2011
KC Police Dept. reports that a theft from an auto occurred and was reported at approximately 2:45 am.in the 7000 block of N. Denver Ave.9-2-2011
KC Police Dept. reports that a theft from an auto occurred and was reported at approximately 6:52 am.in the 6900 block of N. Colorado Ave.
KCMO Police Dept. Community Liaison Officer Smith indicates that both victims said their vehicles were secure. The time frame for the thefts was most likely 10:15 pm on 9-1-2011 to 2:45 am on 9-2-2011. Both vehicles had the driver’s door open with no signs of forced entry. One vehicle was on the street and the other in the driveway. Items taken were tools, CB radio and a digital camera.
Creating a Safety and Security Committee for Charleston Harbor
Just an FYI for residents to stay alert as a report of Breaking & Entering (Residential Burglary) has been listed by the KCMO Police Dept. within the Charleston Harbor subdivision.
The incident was reported in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Dr. on Saturday afternoon (1:48 pm.), Nov. 8, 2014.
One of the topics at the next Board Meeting is to discuss the creation of a Safety & Security Committee for Charleston Harbor. We will be looking for residents to volunteer and help make our area more secure.
Some thoughts are to organize block watch groups (also will help folks to know their neighbors by having a directory & emergency contact numbers for people living near you), research and obtain more security related signs at our 3 entrances, work more closely with our Shoal Creek Patrol officers, prepare home safety and security checklists for residents. If you have any past experience with security and/or safety, neighborhood watch programs, etc., or if you are just interested in making your neighborhood stronger, please consider volunteering.
I know that we have either past or current members of the police and fire departments living within Charleston Harbor. Hopefully we can have some of them join other residents that would serve on the Safety and Security Committee. If interested, please send an email message to chhawebmaster@yahoo.com or come to the next Board Meeting on Tuesday evening, Nov. 25th at 7:00 pm. at the Shoal Creek Patrol Station.
The incident was reported in the 6800 block of N. Charleston Dr. on Saturday afternoon (1:48 pm.), Nov. 8, 2014.
One of the topics at the next Board Meeting is to discuss the creation of a Safety & Security Committee for Charleston Harbor. We will be looking for residents to volunteer and help make our area more secure.
Some thoughts are to organize block watch groups (also will help folks to know their neighbors by having a directory & emergency contact numbers for people living near you), research and obtain more security related signs at our 3 entrances, work more closely with our Shoal Creek Patrol officers, prepare home safety and security checklists for residents. If you have any past experience with security and/or safety, neighborhood watch programs, etc., or if you are just interested in making your neighborhood stronger, please consider volunteering.
I know that we have either past or current members of the police and fire departments living within Charleston Harbor. Hopefully we can have some of them join other residents that would serve on the Safety and Security Committee. If interested, please send an email message to chhawebmaster@yahoo.com or come to the next Board Meeting on Tuesday evening, Nov. 25th at 7:00 pm. at the Shoal Creek Patrol Station.
Active Shoal Creek Patrol Division Crime Alert - Aug. 14, 2014
There have been several calls in Shoal Creek Patrol Division (SCPD) this week of suspicious people selling “green cleaning products.” Although it is legal to sell items door to door in our city without a permit, we are requesting you call 911 with a location, physical description of the person and any vehicle information if you see anyone selling these cleaning products in your neighborhood. A burglary occurred yesterday where a very pushy black female, 5’8” and 125 lbs., who may be occupying a maroon 4 door vehicle, attempted to sell a green solution cleaning substance and detectives are actively investigating the case.
You may place a homemade sign on your door that states “NO SOLICITING” and if someone ignores the sign and rings your doorbell or knocks on your door, you can tell them to leave your property or you will call 911 and have them cited for trespassing. Not all door to door sales people are trying to scam you but it’s better to be safe than become a victim of a crime. Whatever item someone is trying to sell you, chances are you can go to a store and buy it to have a receipt to take it back if it doesn’t work or you don’t like it.
NEVER let anyone you don’t know or a person you didn’t call to your home in your residence. If someone needs to use the phone, use the bathroom, get change for transaction, etc. direct them to the nearest gas station or retail store. Always ask to see a company ID if you are willing to talk to the sales person and know you can terminate the conversation at any time by telling them you are not interested in what they are selling and advise them to leave your property and take you off their contact list.
Officer Shelly Gaddis
Community Interaction Officer
KCPD Shoal Creek Patrol Diivision
You may place a homemade sign on your door that states “NO SOLICITING” and if someone ignores the sign and rings your doorbell or knocks on your door, you can tell them to leave your property or you will call 911 and have them cited for trespassing. Not all door to door sales people are trying to scam you but it’s better to be safe than become a victim of a crime. Whatever item someone is trying to sell you, chances are you can go to a store and buy it to have a receipt to take it back if it doesn’t work or you don’t like it.
NEVER let anyone you don’t know or a person you didn’t call to your home in your residence. If someone needs to use the phone, use the bathroom, get change for transaction, etc. direct them to the nearest gas station or retail store. Always ask to see a company ID if you are willing to talk to the sales person and know you can terminate the conversation at any time by telling them you are not interested in what they are selling and advise them to leave your property and take you off their contact list.
Officer Shelly Gaddis
Community Interaction Officer
KCPD Shoal Creek Patrol Diivision
Active Crime Alert (includes Charleston Harbor subdivision)
August 10, 2014
Active Crime Alert For Shoal Creek Patrol Area (includes Charleston Harbor) Several reports were made recently at the Shoal Creek Patrol Division of theft from unlocked vehicles and garage doors that were left open.
Here are a few tips to help keep your belongings safe:
* Always make sure the doors to your residence are closed and locked before leaving or going to bed... double check the garage doors.
* The best place to park your vehicle is in a secured garage.
* If you have to park your vehicle in a driveway or on the street, make sure there is exterior lighting illuminating it, remove ALL items from the vehicle, roll up the windows up and lock the doors.
* Activate your alarm if you have one.
* NEVER EVER, NEVER leave your keys in your unoccupied vehicle. Not even if it is cold out or if you are just running in somewhere for a quick second.
If you would PLEASE do these things every time you leave your car or house it would really help prevent the theft in your neighborhood.
Check out our YouTube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQy4c5W64...
Officer Shelly Gaddis
Community Interaction Officer
Kansas City Police Dept. - Shoal Creek Patrol Division
Here are a few tips to help keep your belongings safe:
* Always make sure the doors to your residence are closed and locked before leaving or going to bed... double check the garage doors.
* The best place to park your vehicle is in a secured garage.
* If you have to park your vehicle in a driveway or on the street, make sure there is exterior lighting illuminating it, remove ALL items from the vehicle, roll up the windows up and lock the doors.
* Activate your alarm if you have one.
* NEVER EVER, NEVER leave your keys in your unoccupied vehicle. Not even if it is cold out or if you are just running in somewhere for a quick second.
If you would PLEASE do these things every time you leave your car or house it would really help prevent the theft in your neighborhood.
Check out our YouTube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQy4c5W64...
Officer Shelly Gaddis
Community Interaction Officer
Kansas City Police Dept. - Shoal Creek Patrol Division
Door -To - Door Solicitors
Door-To-Door Solicitors
There has been an increase in the number of door-to-door solicitors coming into our neighborhood. While some of these may be legitimate, there may be others who are simply in the area looking for "soft targets" for break-ins and robbery.
Our neighborhood is designated as a "No Soliciting" neighborhood by the KC North Patrol, so the police officers will respond quickly to complaint calls about troublesome solicitors.
The City of Kansas City, Mo. does NOT license solicitors, so any permits or licenses you may be shown by solicitors are bogus.
To create a safer community in the northland, the North Patrol Division of the KCMO Police Department and Northland Neighborhoods Inc. developed a No Soliciting sticker (in 2005) to be placed at or near the front door of any Kansas City, Missouri residence. Properly posted, stickers can warn solicitors that they would be violating Kansas City, Missouri City ordinance 50-151 if they solicit business at that location. If a violation of the ordinance occurs, the resident has the option to contact the police department to respond and sign a complaint against the violator. The sticker must be placed near the front door where it is clearly visible. Solicitors are required by law to comply with posted "No Soliciting" signs on your door or windows. Don't hesitate to post these notices, and to call the KCMO Police Dept. if solicitors come to your door.
A future Board consideration would be to have "No Soliciting" signs placed at our three entrances to the subdivision.
Suspicious Activity In The Neighborhood
If you see something suspicious don’t wait to report it to the police, call immediately.
Don’t wait until a crime has been committed or potential criminals have a chance to get away, “CALL 9-1-1 RIGHT AWAY"
The following are just a few examples of when you should call the police:
A non-resident walking between houses, a possible burglary in progress.
Someone loitering in front of a home, business or school, who could possibly be casing for a burglary or robbery.
Someone looking into residences or cars, could be a possible prowler.
An occupied vehicle parked in the area, possible prowlers casing, or a stolen auto.
A vehicle repeatedly driving through the area, or driving without headlamps.
Someone knocking on your door and asking for directions, or looking for someone you have never heard of. This could be a burglar attempting to see if a residence is occupied.
When calling 9-1-1 you need to give the police call-taker the following information:
Your name. This is not required, but if at all possible please give your
name and telephone number. This information will be kept confidential
and is helpful if further information is needed.
Where you are calling from.
What you are calling about.
Where the incident occurred.
Descriptions of the individuals and vehicles involved, and their directions of travel.
What other emergency services are necessary, such as Fire Department or ambulance.
If the subjects were armed.
It is very important not to hang up the telephone until the call-taker has told you to do so. They may want you to provide them with additional information, especially if the incident is still in progress.
There has been an increase in the number of door-to-door solicitors coming into our neighborhood. While some of these may be legitimate, there may be others who are simply in the area looking for "soft targets" for break-ins and robbery.
Our neighborhood is designated as a "No Soliciting" neighborhood by the KC North Patrol, so the police officers will respond quickly to complaint calls about troublesome solicitors.
The City of Kansas City, Mo. does NOT license solicitors, so any permits or licenses you may be shown by solicitors are bogus.
To create a safer community in the northland, the North Patrol Division of the KCMO Police Department and Northland Neighborhoods Inc. developed a No Soliciting sticker (in 2005) to be placed at or near the front door of any Kansas City, Missouri residence. Properly posted, stickers can warn solicitors that they would be violating Kansas City, Missouri City ordinance 50-151 if they solicit business at that location. If a violation of the ordinance occurs, the resident has the option to contact the police department to respond and sign a complaint against the violator. The sticker must be placed near the front door where it is clearly visible. Solicitors are required by law to comply with posted "No Soliciting" signs on your door or windows. Don't hesitate to post these notices, and to call the KCMO Police Dept. if solicitors come to your door.
A future Board consideration would be to have "No Soliciting" signs placed at our three entrances to the subdivision.
Suspicious Activity In The Neighborhood
If you see something suspicious don’t wait to report it to the police, call immediately.
Don’t wait until a crime has been committed or potential criminals have a chance to get away, “CALL 9-1-1 RIGHT AWAY"
The following are just a few examples of when you should call the police:
A non-resident walking between houses, a possible burglary in progress.
Someone loitering in front of a home, business or school, who could possibly be casing for a burglary or robbery.
Someone looking into residences or cars, could be a possible prowler.
An occupied vehicle parked in the area, possible prowlers casing, or a stolen auto.
A vehicle repeatedly driving through the area, or driving without headlamps.
Someone knocking on your door and asking for directions, or looking for someone you have never heard of. This could be a burglar attempting to see if a residence is occupied.
When calling 9-1-1 you need to give the police call-taker the following information:
Your name. This is not required, but if at all possible please give your
name and telephone number. This information will be kept confidential
and is helpful if further information is needed.
Where you are calling from.
What you are calling about.
Where the incident occurred.
Descriptions of the individuals and vehicles involved, and their directions of travel.
What other emergency services are necessary, such as Fire Department or ambulance.
If the subjects were armed.
It is very important not to hang up the telephone until the call-taker has told you to do so. They may want you to provide them with additional information, especially if the incident is still in progress.
Why Your Home Is A Target For Thieves
A nice reminder from the Consumers Union of U.S., Inc. article:
A home is robbed every 14.6 seconds and the average dollar loss per burglary is $2,119, according to statistics just released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. And that's the good news because burglaries were down slightly in 2013 compared to 2012. Sure you lock your doors and windows when you're not home (you'd be surprised how many people don't).
But here are ten things that you're probably doing that make your home a target, and what you should do instead:
1. Leaving your garage door open or unlocked. Once inside the garage, a burglar can use any tools you haven't locked away to break into your home, out of sight of the neighbors. Interior doors between the garage and your home often aren't as strong as exterior doors and may not have deadbolt locks.
Instead: Always close and lock the garage door. Consider getting a garage-door opener with random codes that automatically reset.
2. Hiding spare keys. Burglars know about fake rocks and leprechaun statues and will check under doormats, in mailboxes, and over doorways.
Instead: Give a spare set to a neighbor or family member.
3. Storing ladders outdoors or in unlocked sheds. Burglars can use them to reach the roof and unprotected upper floor windows.
Instead: Keep ladders under lock and key.
4. Relying on silent alarm systems. Everyone hates noisy alarms, especially burglars. Smart thieves know that it can take as long as 10 to 20 minutes for the alarm company or cops to show up after an alarm has been tripped.
Instead: Have both silent and audible alarms.
5. Letting landscaping get overgrown. Tall hedges and shrubs near the house create hiding spots for burglars who may even use overhanging branches to climb onto your roof.
Instead: Trim any bushes and trees around your home.
6. Keeping your house in the dark. Like overgrown landscaping, poor exterior lighting creates shadows in which burglars can work unobserved.
Instead: Replace burned out bulbs promptly, add lighting where needed, and consider putting fixtures on motion sensors or light sensors so that they go on automatically.
7. Not securing sliding doors. These often make tempting targets.
Instead: When you're out, put a dowel down in the channel, so that the door can't be opened wide enough for a person to get through.
8. Relying on your dog to scare away burglars. While barking my deter amateurs, serious burglars know that dogs may back away from someone wielding a weapon, or get chummy if offered a treat laced with a tranquilizer.
Instead: Make your home look occupied by using timers to turn lights, radios, and TVs on and off in random patterns.
9. Leaving "goody" boxes by the curb. Nothing screams "I just got a brand new flat-screen, stereo, or other big-ticket item" better than boxes by the curb with your garbage cans.
Instead: Break down big boxes into small pieces and bundle them together so that you can't tell what was inside.
10. Posting vacation photos on Facebook. Burglars troll social media sites looking for targets.
Instead: Wait until you get back before sharing vacation details or make sure your security settings only allow trusted "friends" to see what you're up to.
A home is robbed every 14.6 seconds and the average dollar loss per burglary is $2,119, according to statistics just released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. And that's the good news because burglaries were down slightly in 2013 compared to 2012. Sure you lock your doors and windows when you're not home (you'd be surprised how many people don't).
But here are ten things that you're probably doing that make your home a target, and what you should do instead:
1. Leaving your garage door open or unlocked. Once inside the garage, a burglar can use any tools you haven't locked away to break into your home, out of sight of the neighbors. Interior doors between the garage and your home often aren't as strong as exterior doors and may not have deadbolt locks.
Instead: Always close and lock the garage door. Consider getting a garage-door opener with random codes that automatically reset.
2. Hiding spare keys. Burglars know about fake rocks and leprechaun statues and will check under doormats, in mailboxes, and over doorways.
Instead: Give a spare set to a neighbor or family member.
3. Storing ladders outdoors or in unlocked sheds. Burglars can use them to reach the roof and unprotected upper floor windows.
Instead: Keep ladders under lock and key.
4. Relying on silent alarm systems. Everyone hates noisy alarms, especially burglars. Smart thieves know that it can take as long as 10 to 20 minutes for the alarm company or cops to show up after an alarm has been tripped.
Instead: Have both silent and audible alarms.
5. Letting landscaping get overgrown. Tall hedges and shrubs near the house create hiding spots for burglars who may even use overhanging branches to climb onto your roof.
Instead: Trim any bushes and trees around your home.
6. Keeping your house in the dark. Like overgrown landscaping, poor exterior lighting creates shadows in which burglars can work unobserved.
Instead: Replace burned out bulbs promptly, add lighting where needed, and consider putting fixtures on motion sensors or light sensors so that they go on automatically.
7. Not securing sliding doors. These often make tempting targets.
Instead: When you're out, put a dowel down in the channel, so that the door can't be opened wide enough for a person to get through.
8. Relying on your dog to scare away burglars. While barking my deter amateurs, serious burglars know that dogs may back away from someone wielding a weapon, or get chummy if offered a treat laced with a tranquilizer.
Instead: Make your home look occupied by using timers to turn lights, radios, and TVs on and off in random patterns.
9. Leaving "goody" boxes by the curb. Nothing screams "I just got a brand new flat-screen, stereo, or other big-ticket item" better than boxes by the curb with your garbage cans.
Instead: Break down big boxes into small pieces and bundle them together so that you can't tell what was inside.
10. Posting vacation photos on Facebook. Burglars troll social media sites looking for targets.
Instead: Wait until you get back before sharing vacation details or make sure your security settings only allow trusted "friends" to see what you're up to.
Preparing For A Medical Event...You Never Know When
Every person should have a Vial of Life Form filled out. It's FREE and can be completed online and then printed. Seniors especially need this because of their constant medical changes and medications. It's the right thing to do.
Put one in your wallet, in your glove compartment, and especially on your refrigerator door, and one in your child's pocket.
People find themselves in emergencies that make it difficult to think straight.
At these times, all emergency personnel who are trying to help you need to know many things about you.
Your local EMS personnel would love to know:
Who you are...what medications you are using...what illness's you have...who can they call to support you...your normal blood pressure...are you wearing hearing or seeing devices...do you speak English...what language do you speak.
When you get to the hospital...they want to know more. What insurance do you have, etc. These are very annoying questions when you don't feel well or that you may not be able to answer due to your condition.
The Vial of Life speaks for you when you can't speak or don't feel well.
Protect yourself, and all of your family members...all it will cost you is a little time. And it could save your life!
Go online to the Vial Of Life and read the information on the page. Then click on the tab titled "Fill Out The Vial Of Life" and enter your information. You can then print as many copies as you need. Or you can copy the form below.
Put one in your wallet, in your glove compartment, and especially on your refrigerator door, and one in your child's pocket.
People find themselves in emergencies that make it difficult to think straight.
At these times, all emergency personnel who are trying to help you need to know many things about you.
Your local EMS personnel would love to know:
Who you are...what medications you are using...what illness's you have...who can they call to support you...your normal blood pressure...are you wearing hearing or seeing devices...do you speak English...what language do you speak.
When you get to the hospital...they want to know more. What insurance do you have, etc. These are very annoying questions when you don't feel well or that you may not be able to answer due to your condition.
The Vial of Life speaks for you when you can't speak or don't feel well.
Protect yourself, and all of your family members...all it will cost you is a little time. And it could save your life!
Go online to the Vial Of Life and read the information on the page. Then click on the tab titled "Fill Out The Vial Of Life" and enter your information. You can then print as many copies as you need. Or you can copy the form below.
| vial_of_life_form.pdf |